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THE  LIBRARY 

OF 

THE  UNIVERSITY 

OF  CALIFORNIA 

LOS  ANGELES 

GIFT  OF 


Carolyn  Kaplan 


The 
Wandering  Jew 


A  Play  in  Four  Phases 


By 

E.  Temple  Thurston 


G.  P.  Putnam's  Sons 

New  York  and  London 
Gbe   "Knickerbocker   press 

192 1 


Copyright,  19a  i 

by 

E.  TEMPLE  THURSTON 


S£* 


Printed  in  the  United  States  of  America 


I 


GO 
MR.  AND  MRS.  MATHESON  LANG 


This  dedication  is  the  only  tangible  fashion  in 
which  I  can  express  my  gratitude  to  both  of  you  for 
your  enthusiasm  and  belief  in  this  play.  Without 
this  belief,  without  that  enthusiasm,  I  am  convinced 
the  manuscript  would  still  be  lying  on  my  shelves  and, 
for  aught  I  know  to  the  contrary,  I  might  have  been 
still  more  the  loser  in  not  possessing  two  very  good 
friends. 


E.  T.  T. 


Goddards  Green, 
23-8-20. 


The  Wandering  Jew 

by 
E.  Temple  Thurston 


CAST  OF  CHARACTERS 
In  the  Order  of  their  Appearance 

Judith Hutin  Britton 

Rachel  (Matathias'  Sister) Margaret  Darner 

Matathias,  the  Jew Matheson  Lang 

Du  Guesclin Wolferstan  Beck 

Boemond,  Prince  of  Tarentum. .  .Shayle  Gardner 
Godfrey,  Duke  of  Normandy . . .  R.  Campbell-Fletcher 

Raymond  of  Toulouse George  Skillan 

Issachar,  An  old  Jew Ernest  Bodkin 

Joanne  de  Beaudricourt Lillah  McCarthy 

The  Unknown  Knight Matheson  Lang 

Phirous,  A  Man-at-Arms George  Morgan 

Mario,  A  Servant Horton  Cooper 

Andrea  Michelotti,  A  Merchant 

of  Messina W.  F.  Grant 

vii 


viii  CAST  OF  CHARACTERS 

Matteos  Battadios,  The  Jew. .  .George  Skillan 
Gianella  Battadios,  His  Wife.  .Ethel  Carrington 

Pietro  Morelli,  A  Padre George  Skillan 

Al  Kazar,  A  Moorish  Servant. .  .Donald  R.  Young 
Lazzaro  Zapportas,  A  Jewish 
Merchant Hector  Abbas 

Maria  Zapportas,  His  Wife  ....  Nona  Wynne 
Arnaldo  Zapportas,  His  Son . . .  Freddie  Piesley 
Matteos  Battadios,  The  Jew. .  .Matheson  Lang 
Olalla  Quintana,  A  Harlot. . . .  Dorothy  Holmes-Gore 
Gonzalez  Ferara  |  Officials  of  Shayle  Gardner 

Alonzo  Castro       )  the  Inquisition    Ernest  Bodkin 


Juan   de   Texeda,    Inquisitor- 
General  W.  F.  Grant 

Alonzo  Castro,  The  Confessor  . .  Ernest  Bodkin 

Gonzalez  Ferara,  The  Fiscal.  ..Shayle  Gardner 

Councillor Horton  Cooper 

Councillor Wolferstan  Beck 

_  _  {   R.  Campbell- Fletcher 

Officers  of  the  Inquisition  <    TTr  , 

(    Walter  Menpes 

A  Man-at-Arms Walter  Plinge 

Lords,    Ladies,  Knights,   Men-at-Arms,  Squires, 
Heralds,  Soldiers,  Councillors,  etc. 


The  Play  produced  by  Matheson  Lang  and  A.  W. 
Tyler.  Theatre  Royal,  Manchester,  August  23, 
1920;  New  Theatre,  London,  September  9,  1920. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW 


(During  the  music  of  the  introduction  the  lights  are 
lowered  all  through  the  theatre,  and  in  the  darkness  that 
follows  the  voice  of  the  Crier  is  heard.) 

THE   CRIER 

To  each  his  destiny — to  each  his  Fate.  We  all 
are  wanderers  in  a  foreign  land  between  the  furrow 
and  the  stars. 


PHASE  I 


CHARACTERS 

Matathias  ....        The  Jew 

Rachel His  Sister 

Judith 


PHASE   I 

Scene 

The  room  of  a  house  in  Jerusalem.  Up  S.R.  is  a 
bed  upon  which  Judith  lies  dying.  Up  stage,  in  centre 
of  a  wall,  an  archway  leads  out  directly  into  the  street. 
To  S.L.  of  archway  there  is  a  long  window  high  up  in 
the  wall,  with  a  long,  low  table  below  it.  In  wall  S.L. 
there  is  another  archway  leading  into  a  farther  room, 
covered  by  an  oriental  curtain.  There  are  oriental  mats 
on  the  floor. 

As  curtain  rises,  the  young  woman,  Rachel,  is  seen 
looking  out  of  archway  up  S.C.  Judith  lies  inert  and 
apparently  lifeless  on  the  bed.  After  a  moment  she 
raises  herself  with  difficulty  on  her  elbow. 

JUDITH 

{In  the  faint  voice  of  one  near  death.)  Water!  Bring 
me  water !  (She  falls  back  again  on  the  pillows.  Ra- 
chel comes  quickly  to  where  a  pitcher  of  water  and  a  bowl 
are  standing  in  a  corner  of  the  room.      She  fills  the  bowl.) 

RACHEL 

(Bringing  a  bowl  of  water  to  Judith.)  Does  the 
fever  burn  again  ? 

JUDITH 

(Drinking  the  water.)  So  fiercely  that  my  eyes 
seem  swollen  in  my  head  and  all  I  look  at  turns  to 
flame. 

9 


io  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

RACHEL 

(Taking  the  bowl  from  her,  dipping  her  hand  into 
the  water,  and  laying  it  on  Judith's  forehead.)  If  life 
were  only  dearer  to  you,  you  would  soon  be  well.  What 
is  this  ailing  in  your  mind  that  thwarts  recovery  ? 

JUDITH 

How  see  you  that? 

RACHEL 

The  trouble  in  your  eyes,  which  more  than  fever 
brings.  You  look  about  you  as  you  were  pursued. 
You  search  for  things  that  are  not  here.  But  yesterday 
in  a  delirium,  when  Matathias  was  away,  you  cried  a 
name  so  loudly  and  in  such  agony  of  voice  that  tears 
came  to  my  eyes  at  the  pain  of  it. 

JUDITH 

(With  agitation?)     What  name? 

RACHEL 

"Levi"  you  called,  and  again  "Levi — Levi,"  until 
it  seemed  there  must  be  one  to  answer  and  yet  no  voice 
replied. 

JUDITH 

Sooner  would  I  have  breathed  no  more  than  say 
that  name. 

RACHEL 

Who  is  this  Levi  ? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  n 

JUDITH 

My  child — my  little  son.  Ask  me  no  more  or  I 
shall  speak  of  things  my  lips  are  sealed  upon. 

RACHEL 

They  better  spoken  were  than  left  to  burn  like 
poison  in  the  blood.  Set  free  your  mind  of  these  dis- 
turbances ;  'twill  cool  the  fever  in  your  head  and  bring 
you  ease  of  it.  (She  takes  Judith's  hand.)  I  am  all 
patience  and  sympathy  to  hear. 

JUDITH 

How  can  I  speak  to  Matathias'  sister  what  I  would 
not  dare  to  say  to  him  ? 

RACHEL 

And  yet  when  he  did  send  for  me  to  stay  beside 
your  bed,  he  told  me  much  that  you  think  hidden 
from  me  now.  "She  has  a  husband  and  a  child  in 
Bethel  in  the  mountains,"  he  told  me.  "She  fled  from 
there  and  entered  my  house  one  night,  and  is  a  wife  to 
me  this  day." 

JUDITH 

Oh  God!    That  night!    And  now  this  day ! 

RACHEL 

Then  is  your  love  for  Matathias  dead? 


12  THE  WANDERING  JEW 


JUDITH 

Not  dead — I  love  him  still  and  fear  him  more,  but 
there  is  that  within  my  conscience  and  my  soul  that 
cries  out  for  my  child  whom  I  have  left.  This  sickness 
of  my  body  is  of  my  spirit  too.  I  lie  through  the  long 
night  and  only  pray  that  death  may  bring  me  ease  of  it. 

RACHEL 

Does  Matathias  know  of  this? 

JUDITH 

Once  I  did  speak  to  him  when  first  this  fever 
brought  me  to  my  bed. 

RACHEL 

And  then? 

JUDITH 

He  is  your  brother  and  you  know  the  temper  of  the 
man — fierce  to  love  as  fierce  to  hate.  As  fiercely  as 
he  loves  me  so  fiercely  does  he  hate  my  son  and  him  for 
whom  I  bore  him.  "  Let  me  return  but  once,"  I  said, 
"but  once,  to  see  my  child,  and  then  I  will  come  back 
to  you,"  at  which,  taking  the  knife  he  carries  in  his 
girdle,  he  swore  that  he  would  kill  me  sooner — saying 
'twas  but  a  trick  to  leave  him.  And  when  I  protested, 
vowing  I  loved  him  still,  he  took  me  once  more  in  his 
arms  and  spoke  as  to  a  child  with  that  great  gentleness 
that  won  me  to  him  first. 

RACHEL 

He  burns  with  jealousy,  and  when  a  boy  was  like 
a  firebrand,  ready  to  be  caught  in  flame  by  any  spark 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  13 

that  flew.    Does  he  not  know  then  that  your  heart  is 
torn  in  this  distress  ? 

JUDITH 

He  knows  or  has  forgotten,  for  never  does  he  speak 
of  it.  (Lying  back  in  exhaustion  on  her  pillows.)  Oh, 
how  far  off  everything  does  seem.  I  feel  like  a  feather 
balanced  on  the  world. 

RACHEL 

I  will  bring  your  draught  of  herbs.     [She  rises. 

JUDITH 

No  draught  can  cure  these  pains.  Look  out  again 
and  see  if  he  returns. 

[Rachel  goes  to  the  archway  up  S.C.  and  looks  out. 

RACHEL 

I  see  him  not. 

[She  gets  down  again  and  exits  by  door  S.L. 

JUDITH 

(Raising  her  arms  above  her  head.)     Levi !    Levi ! 
Enter  Rachel  with  draught  in  bowl. 

RACHEL 

He  has  been  two  hours  gone  on  this  mad  errand  to 
the  Nazarene. 

[She  comes  over  to  the  bedside  and  gives  Judith 
the  draught. 


14  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

JUDITH 

(Giving  back  the  bowl.)  Why  call  you  his  errand 
mad? 

RACHEL 

Why  ?  The  Nazarene  Himself  is  mad !  Last  night 
they  took  Him  in  the  garden  which  is  by  the  brook 
Cedron,  where  He  was  betrayed  by  one  of  those  who 
follow  Him.  They  brought  Him  to  Annas  and  then  to 
Caiaphas  the  High  Priest. 

JUDITH 

What  wrong  has  He  done  ?  He  has  healed  the  sick 
and  fed  the  poor.  Did  He  not  raise  one  from  the 
dead  ?  What  wrong  has  He  done  that  brings  a  need  of 
judgment?  [She  sits  up  in  bed. 

RACHEL 

Nay,  talk  no  more.  Lie  back  again  and  close  your 
eyes.    One  hour  of  sleep  might  quench  the  fever. 

'     JUDITH 

No  sleep  for  me  till  Matathias  shall  come  back. 
'Twas  I  who  prayed  him  go  and  bring  the  Nazarene  to 
make  me  well.  He  laughed  and  like  you  said  the  man 
was  mad.  Why  is  He  mad  and  what  harm  has  He 
done? 

RACHEL 

Whilst  you  have  been  abed  here  in  this  room,  no 
day  has  passed  without  some  riot  or  disturbance.  He 
is  perverting  the  nation;  sowing  sedition  throughout 
all  the  land.    He  calls  Himself  Christ  and  says  He  is 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  15 

a  King;  has  sworn  He  will  destroy  the  Temple  and 
in  three  days  will  build  it  up  again.  What  else  but 
madness  can  this  be? 

JUDITH 

Supposing  it  were  true? 

RACHEL 

What  true? 

JUDITH 

That  He  were  the  Christ  and  were  indeed  a  King 

RACHEL 

Aye — and  true  perhaps  He  were  the  Son  of  God ! 

JUDITH 

Does  He  say  that? 

RACHEL 

There  is  no  madness  that  He  will  not  say. 

JUDITH 

{To  herself.)  The  Son  of  God.  (To  Rachel.)  Have 
you  seen  Him?     Have  you  heard  Him  in  the  Temple? 

RACHEL 

Nay — nor  have  I  wish  of  it. 

JUDITH 

Five  days  ago  I  saw  Him — that  day  the  fever 
brought  me  to  my  bed.  (She  speaks  in  a  tone  of  awe.) 
'Twas  as  He  came  from  Bethphage  into  the  city,  seated 


16  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

upon  an  ass  with  a  little  colt  following  at  its  heels. 
There  were  crowds  about  Him,  spreading  their  gar- 
ments in  His  way  and  cutting  branches  from  the  trees 
to  make  a  path  for  Him.  And  with  Him  came  those 
twelve  disciples,  rough  fishermen,  who  hung  upon  the 
words  He  says.  "Hosanna,"  they  were  crying — 
"  Hosanna  to  the  Son  of  David,"  and  I  stayed  to  watch 
them  as  they  went.  'Twas  then  I  saw  Him  close,  for 
as  He  passed  He  looked  into  my  eyes  and  then  I  felt  in 
dread,  for  all  that  I  had  ever  done,  my  child  and  hus- 
band I  had  left,  all  stood  before  Him  then  and  He  must 
see  my  heart's  iniquity.  But  when  I  thought  that 
anger  would  set  light  within  His  eyes,  no  anger  burnt — 
only  a  divine  gentleness,  as  though  He  took  my  soul  in 
His  and  eased  it  of  the  burden  that  it  bore. 

RACHEL 

He  hath  bewitched  you  as  He  hath  bewitched  them 
all. 

JUDITH 

Nay — I  was  not  bewitched.  All  that  I  saw — I  saw. 
He  said  no  word  to  conjure  me.  But  I  have  never 
known  such  rest  as  I  saw  in  those  eyes  of  His.  Go — 
look  again.    Tell  me  if  Matathias  comes. 

RACHEL 

(Going  to  archway  again  and  looking  out — after  a 
moment.)  Great  crowds  are  gathered  by  the  Judgment 
Hall.  (At  that  moment  a  sound  of  music  is  heard — some 
weird  oriental  tune.)  This  is  that  Nazarene  again, 
stirring  up  the  people  at  the  Feast  of  Passover.  I  see 
him  now     He  runs — now  stays  to  look  behind. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  17 

JUDITH 

Who  plays  that  music? 

RACHEL 

Some  blind  beggar  on  his  pipe  outside. 

JUDITH 

Then  bid  him  stay  his  hand,  I  cannot  bear  the 
sound  of  it.  My  senses  are  all  strung  until  I  hear  the 
message  Matathias  brings.  (.4  s  Rachel  goes  to  the 
archway.)     Was  there  no  man  with  him  as  he  came? 

RACHEL 

(Drawing  curtain  into  street.)  None — he  came 
alone. 

JUDITH 

Maybe  the  Nazarene  will  follow  after. 

RACHEL 

Say  no  more,  you  are  not  bewitched  of  Him.  What 
power  on  earth  can  this  man  have  beyond  the  power 
of  other  men  ? 

JUDITH 

I  only  know  the  power  I  saw  there  in  His  eyes. 
Oh,  give  him  a  mite  and  stay  that  beggar's  hand! 
His  music  maddens  me. 

[Exit  Rachel  by  arch,  and  a  moment  later  enters 
Matathias.  He  is  out  of  breath  with 
running,  excitement,  and  anger. 


18  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATATHIAS 

(Coming  quickly  to  the  bed  and  kneeling  down  beside 
it.)  Dear  love,  I've  been  long  gone  from  you.  These 
hours  have  seemed  a  year.  How  feel  you  now?  Are 
all  the  pains  of  fever  gone  ? 

[The  music  outside  stops  and  Rachel  enters, 
quickly  drawing  the  curtain  behind  her. 

JUDITH 

My  strength  is  going,  Matathias — life  is  a  poor 
thing,  trembling  in  me  now.  Only  tell  me — will  He 
come  to  lay  His  hands  on  me? 

MATATHIAS 

That  madman ! 

JUDITH 

Nay — the  Nazarene. 

RACHEL 

Have  you  seen  Him? 

MATATHIAS 

(Rising  to  his  feet.)  This  very  morn  they  brought 
Him  before  Pilate  in  the  Judgment  Hall.  Have  I 
seen  Him?  God  of  our  fathers!  Have  I  not  made 
myself  a  laughing-stock  before  all  people?  I  spoke 
to  Him  as  they  brought  Him  from  the  court  of  Herod. 
I  prayed  Him  come  and  lay  His  hands  on  Judith's 
head  and  heal  her  of  her  fever. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  19 

JUDITH 

What  did  He  say,  Matathias?  Say  quickly  all 
He  said. 

MATATHIAS 

With  those  great  eyes  He  looked  at  me,  and  with 
that  voice  a  mother  might  reprove  her  child,  He  said — 
"Return  the  woman  to  her  husband  and  she  shall  be 
healed." 

JUDITH 

(Sitting  up  in  bed,  her  face  full  of  wonder  and  of 
awe  as  Rachel  looks  at  her  in  the  astonishment  of  first 
belief.)  Did  He  say  that?  Were  those  His  very 
words  ? 

MATATHIAS 

'Twas  all  He  said — and  knowing  you  had  fled  from 
the  man  in  Bethel,  the  people  laughed  at  me  and  cried 
out  it  were  a  likely  cure  when  he  would  beat  you  from 
his  door. 

JUDITH 

(Still  awed.)  'Twas  not  my  husband  but  my  child 
He  meant.  How  did  He  know  the  very  pulses  of  my 
heart? 

RACHEL 

(Trying  to  recall  her  first  convictions.)  Some  busy- 
body has  been  speaking  of  it  in  the  market-place  and 
it  has  reached  His  ears. 


20  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

JUDITH 

Nay,  He  would  not  listen,  He,  to  wagging  tongues. 
He  saw  it  in  my  eyes  that  day  at  Bethphage. 

MATATHIAS 

And  you  pay  heed  to  what  this  madman  says? 

JUDITH 

He  is  no  madman,  Matathias,  but  a  man  of  wonder 
— maybe  a  man  of  God. 

MATATHIAS 

Yet  I  would  sooner  see  you  dead  than  give  you 
back  to  him  at  Bethel.  This  Nazarene  is  all  puffed 
out  with  vanity  and  swollen  with  conceit  because  a 
few  sick  beggars  and  idle  fishermen  pour  flattery  in 
His  ears;  but  justice  has  been  found  for  Him  this  day. 
Before  the  sun  sets  we  shall  be  rid  of  Him. 

JUDITH 

What  do  you  say?    (She  struggles  to  rise  in  bed.) 

MATATHIAS 

Even  now  they  are  setting  from  the  Judgment 
Hall,  and  ere  an  hour  is  gone  He  will  be  struggling  on 
a  cross  on  Calvary. 

JUDITH 

Crucified!  (The  sound  of  the  crowds  can  just  be 
heard  in  the  distance.) 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  21 

RACHEL 

(With  forced  self-conviction.)  A  fitting  end  to  all 
His  blasphemy. 

JUDITH 

Oh,  you  know  not,  either  of  you,  what  you  say! 
They  kill  the  Son  of  God  who  crucify  this  man,  and 
it  will  be  a  stain  of  sin  that  no  blood  ever  shall  wipe 
out. 

MATATHIAS 

Hath  He  bewitched  you  too  then  with  His  blas- 
phemies? (The  murmur  of  the  crowd  is  heard  again.) 
Hark!  Even  now  the  people  come.  (Kneeling  sud- 
denly beside  her  bed.)  Oh,  my  Judith,  pay  no  more 
heed  to  the  folly  of  this  trickster's  words.  This  is 
your  home — for  Bethel  was  no  home  to  you.  Throw 
off  the  sickness  of  this  fever  and  come  back  to  me  again 
as  you  have  always  been. 

JUDITH 

He  knows  the  secrets  in  a  mother's  heart.  'Twas 
that  He  said.  'Twas  thus  He  showed  the  truth  that 
is  in  Him.  Let  me  return  or  even  bring  my  child 
to  me. 

MATATHIAS 

Let  you  go  back !  What,  be  a  flatterer  to  His  mad 
conceit  myself!  How  could  such  folly  heal  you? 
If  that  be  truth,  then  I  will  shut  my  ears  and  hear  no 
more.  Nay,  had  He  but  come  here  to  the  house 
and  laid  His  hand  upon  your  eyes,  and  you  had  risen 


22  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

straightway  from  the  bed,  I  too,  with  all  those  fools, 
might  have  believed.  But  in  my  hour  of  misery  to 
turn  and  mock  me  as  He  did!  The  truth!  I  cried 
as  loud  as  all  the  rest :  "Crucify  Him!  Crucify  Him!" 
and  may  He  linger  in  His  death  as  I  am  lingering  in 
despair  of  you. 

JUDITH 

Can  you  believe  then  only  what  you  see?  Oh, 
Matathias,  what  have  you  done? 

MATATHIAS 

What  have  I  done?  Added  my  voice  to  that  of 
all  Jerusalem.  When  Pilate  asked  us  whom  he  should 
release,  it  being  the  Feast  of  the  Passover,  I  was  the 
first  to  cry  aloud,  ' '  Barabbas ! "  He  has  not  bewitched 
our  women  as  this  Jesus  of  Nazareth  hath  done.  Oh, 
Judith,  let  not  thy  mind  run  more  upon  His  mockery, 
but  get  thee  well  and  fill  my  life  again. 

[Rachel  climbs  up  on  the  table  and  looks  out 
of  the  window  as  the  sounds  of  the  crowd 
come  nearer  and  voices  are  heard  crying  out 
in  the  distance: ' '  Crucify  Him  I ' '  Crucify 
Him  1    Hail,  King  of  the  Jews ! " 

JUDITH 

I  never  shall  be  well  again  for  this  world  now. 

MATATHIAS 

(In  despair  and  rising  from  the  bed.)  Then  curse 
this  Nazarene! 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  23 

JUDITH 

I  am  content  to  die  the  day  that  He  will  be  in 
Paradise. 

MATATHIAS 

But  should  my  curses  reach  His  soul,  there  never 
will  He  be  this  day.  If  He  has  healed  others  why 
cannot  He  heal  you  and  save  Himself. 

JUDITH 

My  healing  is  of  no  account,  and  if  it  be  the  will  of 
God  He  yet  may  save  Himself. 

RACHEL 

The  crowds  come  now — the  soldiers  and  centurions. 
(Leaning  further  out  of  the  window.)  I  see  the  cross 
sway  to  and  fro  amongst  the  heads  of  those  that  follow. 

JUDITH 

What  have  they  done? 

MATATHIAS 

What  have  they  done?  They  have  declared  in 
justice  'gainst  this  mountebank  of  God,  and  surely  as 
He  comes  this  way  I  will  go  out  and  spit  on  Him. 

JUDITH 

(Reaching  out  of  bed  with  difficulty  to  touch  his  arm.) 
I  pray  you  not.  Oh,  Matathias,  if  it  be  an  evil  thing 
to  you  that  I  should  die,  mayhap  a  still  worse  thing 
may  then  befall  you. 


24  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATATHIAS 

Nay,  that  I  swear  to  do — if  you  must  die,  I'll 
let  the  people  see  my  rich  contempt  of  Him. 

JUDITH 

May  God  defend  you  from  a  dreadful  thing  if  you 
do  this. 

[The  crowds  can  be  heard  now  passing  under 
the  window. 

RACHEL 

(Contemptuously.)  I  see  Him  coming  with  His 
cross.  He  struggles  'neath  the  weight  of  it.  (Pause.) 
A  crown  of  thorns  is  on  His  head,  and  all  the  sweat  and 
blood  are  trickling  down  His  cheek.  (Half  in  wonder.) 
He  hath  a  woman's  face  this  Nazarene;  nay,  yet  a 
man's,  though  all  the  tenderness  of  women  I  can  find 
there  too. 

MATATHIAS 

God  of  Abraham !  Here  is  another  caught  hold  by 
His  witcheries ! 

[The  spears  of  the  soldiers  can  just  be  seen 
passing  by.  Judith  is  straining  herself  to 
rise  up  in  bed;  there  is  a  wonderful  look 
of  expectation  in  her  eyes. 

RACHEL 

(Putting  up  her  hands  to  her  eyes  and  turning  away 
as  the  top  of  the  cross  is  seen  going  unsteadily  by  the 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  25 

window,  and  with  it  from  below  moves  a  brilliant  light 
that  passes  away  with  the  crowd.)    I  am  afraid. 

[Judith  sits  up  in  the  bed  following  the  light  with 
her  eyes  that  are  filled  with  a  wonderful 
fulfilment. 

MATATHIAS 

(Shading  his  eyes  with  his  hands.)  What  light  was 
that? 

RACHEL 

He  has  gone  by. 

JUDITH 

It  was  the  light  of  God,  and  you  have  shut  your 
eyes  upon  it. 

MATATHIAS 

The  light  of  God,  you  say !  I  will  not  see  the  light 
of  God  in  this  impostor's  eyes.  The  God  of  our  fathers 
is  of  mightier  stuff  than  this.  He  stood  but  now  in  the 
Judgment  Hall  and  spake  no  word — was  dumb  in  His 
defence.  What  manner  of  divinity  is  that?  I  would 
not  thank  you  for  such  manhood,  and  you  talk  to  me 
of  God! 

JUDITH 

I  hear  His  silence  deeper  in  my  soul  than  any  words 
which  might  have  passed  His  lips. 

MATATHIAS 

How,  with  His  silky  tongue  and  woman's  face,  can 
He  thus  steal  away  the  reason  from  your  mind?  I 
know  the  man — soft  looks  and  drooping  lids  that  ever 


26  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

caught  a  woman  in  a  snare.  I'll  show  Him  forth  and, 
as  He  hangs  upon  the  cross,  will  make  Him  tell  the 
people  all  He  is  as  He  drags  out  His  miserable  end. 

JUDITH 

(With  great  effort  sitting  up  in  bed  and  imploring 
him.)  I  do  entreat  you,  Matathias,  and  you  love  me 
still,  let  me  not  die  with  such  a  shame  upon  my  soul. 
(She  tries  in  her  agony  to  hold  him.)  For  yours  will  be 
the  blasphemy  to  say  such  things,  and  I  shall  go  down 
to  my  grave  in  sorrow  and  disgrace. 

RACHEL 

(Looking  from  the  window.)  He  bears  the  cross  no 
more;  the  weight  of  it  hath  broken  Him.  Some  other 
hath  it  on  his  shoulders  now,  as  they  set  up  the  hill. 

MATATHIAS 

(Laughing.)  Your  man  of  God !  How  will  He  bear 
the  pains  of  death  who  cannot  bear  such  pains  as 
these?  (As  he  frees  himself  from  Judith.)  This  man 
would  build  the  Temple  in  three  days  who  cannot  bear 
a  cross!  Your  man  of  God!  He  is  not  fit  to  spit 
upon!     (He  goes  to  the  door .) 

JUDITH 

Matathias!    Stay,  Matathias! 

[He  goes  out  swiftly,  drawing  the  curtain  after 
him. 

JUDITH 

Tell  me  he  has  not  gone.  Look  out;  say  twas  an 
idle  boast  of  his. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  27 

RACHEL 

(Looking  out.)     I  sec  him  running  up  the  street. 

JUDITH 

Which  way?    Which  way? 

RACHEL 

The  way  they  all  have  gone.    He  who  now  bears 
the  cross  is  bent  already  'neath  the  weight  of  it. 

JUDITH 

But  Matathias — what  of  Matathias? 

RACHEL 

He  pushes  his  way  through  the  crowd. 

JUDITH 

And  now? 

RACHEL 

He  lays  his  hand  on  the  Nazarene's  shoulder.    He 
turns.    I  see  that  face  again. 

JUDITH 

Now?    Now?    What  now? 

RACHEL 

Now  Matathias  spits  on  Him. 

JUDITH 

Oh  God !    That  this  should  be ! 


28  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

RACHEL 

The  Nazarene  is  speaking  and  Matathias  listens 
like  one  who  is  struck  dumb. 

JUDITH 

The  evil  thing  is  done.  (She  sits  up  in  the  bed  again 
in  a  sudden  spasm,  struggling  for  her  breath  to  speak; 
then  she  jails  back  dead  on  the  pillows.) 

RACHEL 

(Still  looking  out  of  the  window.)  He  has  fallen 
back  out  of  the  crowd.  He  comes  back  now — back  to 
the  house — but  he  trembles  as  he  walks.  His  face  is 
white  as  the  ashes  of  a  fire.  Here  now  he  is — here — 
now. 

The  door  opens.     Enter  Matathias. 

RACHEL 

{Getting  down  from  table.)     What  hath  he  said? 

MATATHIAS 

(Dazed  still  at  what  he  has  heard.)  He  looked  at 
me — His  eyes! — and  then — and  then  He  said:  "I 
will  not  wait  for  thee,  but  thou  shalt  wait  for  Me  until 
I  come  to  thee  again."  What  does  He  mean?  What 
does  He  mean?  It  is  a  curse — a  curse  as  I  cursed 
Him.  But  who  am  I  and  who  is  He?  Our  curses  are 
but  words  as  empty  as  that  pitcher  on  the  floor.  Yet 
I  tremble  at  the  thought:  for  when  should  that  man 
ever  come  to  me  again ?  (Turning  to  the  bed.)  Judith, 
if  you  must  die,  then — (He  finds  that  she  is  lying 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  29 

still,  and,  going  quickly  on  his  knees,  he  takes  her  in  his 
arms.)  Is  she  asleep?  (He  tries  to  wake  her.)  Judith, 
Judith,  awake — open  your  eyes  and  look  at  me!  Oh, 
she  is  dead;  so  I  must  lose  the  greatest  thing  of  all. 
She's  dead,  and  life  is  hollow  as  an  empty  gourd.  Now 
might  I  well  die,  too;  and  she  and  I  and  the  Nazarene 
will  be  fit  company  to  Paradise.  Judith,  my  love — 
(he  kisses  her) — I  shall  be  with  you  now.  (He  takes 
out  a  knife  from  his  girdle  and  plunges  it  into  his  breast. 
It  breaks  and  the  pieces  fall  to  the  floor.  With  a  cry  of 
horror  he  picks  up  the  pointed  end  and  plunges  it  again 
in  his  breast.  It  breaks  again.  He  stands  a  moment 
looking  at  it.)  (With  a  hollow  laugh  of  terror.)  What 
is  this  trick  that  keeps  death  from  my  hand  ?  (In  an 
awed  whisper.)     The  curse.    It  has  begun. 

[The  stage  begins  to  darken  with  the  approach 
of  the  coming  storm.  As  a  distant  roar  of 
thunder  is  heard,  Rachel  cowers  up 
against  the  wall  trembling. 

CURTAIN 


PHASE   II 


31 


CHARACTERS 

Boemond  ....         Prince  of  Tarentum. 
Godfrey  ....         Duke  of  Normandy. 
Raymond  of  Toulouse. 
Issachar  ....         A  Jew. 
Joanne  de  Beaudricourt. 
The  Unknown  Knight. 

Phirons    ....         A  Man  at  Arms. 
Yeomen,  Ladies,  Knights,  Men-at-Arms,  etc. 


33 


SCENE   I 

Scene 

The  lists  near  Antioch. 

The  temporarily  erected  gallery  enclosing  the  lists, 
covered  with  its  brightly  coloured  awning  and  draped 
with  tapestries  hiding  its  framework,  stretches  from 
entrance  left  to  right  up  S.  raised  but  slightly  from  S.  R. 
to  S.  C,  and  then  rising  tier  upon  tier,  coming  down  at 
an  angle  to  S.L.  Between  the  bottom  of  the  awning  and 
the  heads  of  the  people,  looking  across  the  lists,  can  be  seen 
the  brilliant  blue  Eastern  sky,  with  a  group  of  Cyprus 
trees  in  the  distance. 

The  lighting  effect  of  this  scene  is  that  of  subdued 
shadow  under  the  awning,  strikingly  contrasted  with  the 
brilliant  sunshine  in  the  lists  beyond,  which  just  strikes 
in  under  the  canopy  on  to  the  colours  of  the  dressest  etc., 
in  the  front  row. 

The  crowd  of  onlookers  is  so  raised  as  to  obscure  the 
sight  of  the  horses,  only  showing  the  heads  and  shoulders 
of  the  knights  in  armour  as  they  ride  by. 

There  is  a  flight  of  steps  down  from  the  raised  plat- 
form at  the  back,  allowing  characters  to  descend  on  to 
the  grass,  which,  in  the  shadow  of  the  awning,  makes  the 
foreground  of  the  scene. 

When  the  curtain  rises  the  sound  of  trumpets  is  heard, 
and  the  spectators  lean  forward  eagerly  in  their  seats  as 
one  of  the  knights  in  full  armour  with  his  lance  in  rest 
is  seen  above  the  heads  of  the  people,  dashing  by  with  the 

35 


36  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

thunder  of  his  horse's  hoofs  and  the  clash  of  armour  as 
he  meets  his  opponent  in  the  centre  of  the  lists,  off  S.R. 

Some  definite  result  of  the  encounter  is  evidently 
achieved  for  the  people  wave  handkerchiefs  and  scream 
and  shout  with  excitement,  crying  "Brave  lance!"  to 
the  victorious  knight  as  he  rides  back  down  the  lists  with 
his  broken  lance  held  up,  lowering  it  as  he  passes  the 
gallery  where  the  throne  of  the  Prince  of  Tarentum  is  set 
and  all  the  highest  ladies  and  knights  are  gathered. 

As  he  passes,  music  is  heard  in  the  distance — a 
wild,  barbaric  Eastern  effect,  combined  largely  of  cymbals 
and  bells.  It  has  in  its  composition  a  suggestion  of  the 
music  heard  in  the  previous  Act. 

[After  the  knight  has  passed  and  the  shouting 
has  died  down,  Beomond,  Prince  of 
Tarentum,  followed  by  Godfrey,  Duke 
of  Normandy,  and  Raymond  of  Tou- 
louse, comes  down  the  steps  from  the 
gallery  on  to  the  grass  in  the  foreground. 

BOEMOND 

If  he  shall  unhorse  the  Sieur  du  Guesclin  the  day 
is  his,  and  we  shall  be  beholden  to  him  for  the  courtesy 
of  putting  to  shame  the  best  of  all  these  knights  that 
ride  beneath  our  standard. 

GODFREY 

He  will  not  vanquish  du  Guesclin. 

RAYMOND 

I  would  not  trust  the  issue  to  my  hopes.    He  sports 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  37 

with  danger,  and  I  have  heard  him  make  a  jest  of 
death. 

BOEMOND 

He  might  well  sport  with  death  in  service  of  my 
arms;  but  serving  none,  and  covering  his  face  that 
none  may  read  his  looks,  it  likes  me  ill  to  see  him 
sweep  my  knights  from  their  saddles  as  they  were  so 
much  chaff  to  sweep  from  off  the  floor.  How  can  we 
steal  this  mask  he  wears  ?     Who  are  his  men-at-arms  ? 

GODFREY 

One  fellow  does  attend  to  him — no  more. 

BOEMOND 

Where  is  his  tent? 

GODFREY 

Out  there  upon  the  plain.  It  stands  all  set  apart 
— aloof  and  like  himself. 

BOEMOND 

Might  we  not  put  a  watch  on  it  and  catch  him 
unawares  ? 

RAYMOND 

My  lord  Prince !  We  are  all  knights  and  may  not 
put  our  chivalry  to  shame!  It  is  the  hospitality  of 
this  tournament  to  invite  all  comers,  whosoe'er  they 
be,  asking  no  credit  but  of  their  valour  and  their 
chivalry.  Of  these  two  qualities  this  unknown  knight 
has  shown  as  high  degree  as  any  in  the  lists. 


38  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

BOEMOND 

The  more  then  would  I  know  his  name  that  I  might 
gather  him  beneath  my  standard. 

GODFREY 

Ask  of  the  Jew.  He's  travelled  far  and  knows  a 
many  of  the  secrets  of  the  East.  Ask  of  the  Jew. 
We've  bled  him  dry  of  all  but  these. 

BOEMOND 

He  is  not  dry,  my  lord  Duke.  Each  time  we 
squeeze  him,  sure  he  cries  for  mercy,  but  he  weeps  a 
ducat  more.     Bring  him  to  me.      We'll  question  him. 

[Exit   Godfrey,    Duke    of    Normandy,    by 
wings  at  S.L. 

RAYMOND 

I  did  myself  speak  with  his  man-at-arms. 

BOEMOND 

What  did  the  fellow  say? 

RAYMOND 

He  seemed  as  honest  as  a  fool  can  be.  'Twas  no 
disguise  that  he  professed,  but  turned  on  me  an  eye 
as  liquid  clear  in  all  its  innocence  as  drops  of  water  in 
the  hollow  of  the  hand. 

BOEMOND 

But  what  said  he?  The  eye  gives  natural  service 
to  a  fool.     The  tongue  may  fail  him. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  39 

RAYMOND 

His  words  were  just  as  simple  as  his  glance.  He 
knew  no  more  than  I,  he  said.  His  master  chose  to 
follow  at  the  heels  of  war.  He  knew  not  whence  he 
came,  nor  whither  he  had  made  his  mind  to  go.  No 
cause  he  served — nor  Turk  nor  Christian — yet  held  his 
life  as  cheap  as  any  bauble  on  a  woman's  wrist. 

BOEMOND 

How  long  had  the  fellow  served  with  him? 

RAYMOND 

Two  years,  no  more. 

BOEMOND 

Whence  comes  the  servant? 

RAYMOND 

He  is  of  Salamis — in  Kupros — a  hardy  man  of 
simple  wit,  just  such  a  servitor  as  he  must  need  who 
would  keep  counsel  with  himself. 

BOEMOND 

And  in  two  years  he's  learnt  no  more  than  this  ? 

RAYMOND 

One  other  matter  the  knight  could  not  conceal, 
not  even  from  a  fool. 

BOEMOND 

Let's  hear  it  all. 


40  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

RAYMOND 

As  daring  as  he  is  in  deeds  of  valour,  so  is  he  ventur- 
ous in  love.  No  woman  resists  him.  He  does  take 
favours  from  all  that  please  his  eye,  and  fears  as  little 
of  damnation  to  his  soul  as  it  would  seem  he  fears  of 
danger  to  his  life. 

BOEMOND 

I  could  be  well  worse  served  by  other  qualities 
than  those.  A  man  can  live  but  once,  and  he  who 
drinks  from  brim  to  bottom  of  the  measure  finds  heart 
for  enterprise.  Here  comes  the  Jew;  now  watch  me 
bait  him  first. 

[Enter  Godfrey,  Duke  of  Normandy,  with 
Issachar,  an  old  Jew  about  seventy  years 
of  age.  He  bows  with  servile  humility 
before  Boemond. 

BOEMOND 

Issachar,  a  more  ten  thousand  crowns! 

ISSACHAR 

My  lord!  My  lord!  I've  not  ten  groats  to  call 
my  own !     You've  had  my  little  fortune  to  its  dregs. 

BOEMOND 

Let's  have  them,  then,  maybe  they'll  weigh  as 
heavy  as  the  draught. 

ISSACHAR 

My  lord!  I  have  no  more!  I  pray  o'  nights  for 
death,  that  it  may  be  my  merciful  extortioner. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  41 

GODFREY 

There's  more  than  death,  Jew.  My  lord  the 
Bishop  of  Marseilles  has  made  as  pretty  a  design  of 
torture  as  I  have  ever  seen.  It  gives  the  sweetest  pain 
and  wrings  out  secrets  as  daintily  as  a  mistress  wrings 
the  tears  from  out  her  kerchief. 

[They  laugh  at  his  distress. 

ISSACHAR 

I  am  an  old  man.  I  cannot  bear  the  torture,  my 
lord! 

BOEMOND 

How  then  will  you  pay  for  ease  of  it? 

ISSACHAR 

I  have  a  son,  my  lord,  in  Mitylene.  If  I  should 
send  to  him,  maybe  he'd  scrape  ten  thousand  crowns 
to  save  me  this. 

BOEMOND 

(Laughing  as  the  others  laugh  with  him.)  Brave 
Jew!  I  was  but  baiting  you.  (7>  Godfrey.)  Never- 
theless, remember  that,  my  lord.  There  are  ten  thou- 
sand crowns  in  Mitylene.  (To  Issachar.)  It  was  not 
money  that  I  called  you  for.  We  need  to  know  who 
is  this  stranger  knight  who  jousts  today. 

ISSACHAR 

I  know  no  more  than  you,  my  lord.  How  was 
he  entered  for  the  tourney  ? 


42  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

GODFREY 

Le  Sieur  Inconnu. 

ISSACHAR 

What's  the  device  upon  his  shield? 

RAYMOND 

'Tis  hard  to  tell;  but  I  have  seen  it  close.  It  is  a 
dagger  broke  in  three. 

BOEMOND 

That  tells  no  tale.  But  I  have  heard  that  you, 
Jew,  in  your  wanderings  in  the  East  of  Europe,  have 
not  a  little  knowledge  of  the  men  who  come  and  go. 
So  venturesome  a  knight  as  this  could  scarce  have 
passed  unheard  by  ears  as  sharp  as  yours.  Is  there 
no  man  of  your  knowing  he  might  be? 

ISSACHAR 

(After  a  pause.)     None,  my  lord. 

GODFREY 

The  lady  Joanne,  wife  of  the  Sieur  de  Beaudricourt, 
had  speech  with  him  but  yesterday,  my  lord,  after  the 
jousting  was  done. 

BOEMOND 

To  what  purpose? 

GODFREY 

I  do  not  know,  my  lord. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  43 

RAYMOND 

Where  was  de  Beaudricourt? 

BOEMOND 

(Sarcastically.)  In  any  place  but  that  which  she 
might  need  him.  That  knight  will  rot  his  bones  in 
France  if  caution  is  enough  to  bring  them  home  again. 

GODFREY 

Question  her,  my  lord.  (Indicating  the  gallery.) 
She  sits  up  there. 

BOEMOND 

Bring  her  down.  I'll  sift  this  matter  to  what  end 
I  can. 

[Godfrey,  Duke  of  Normandy,  departs  up  the 
steps  to  the  gallery. 

ISSACHAR 

I  have  been  thinking  wide  and  deep,  my  lord,  and 
there's  no  man  but  one  I  know  of  who  this  knight 
might  be. 

BOEMOND 

Who's  that? 

ISSACHAR 

(Shaking  his  head  as  he  ponders  over  his  thoughts.) 
But  'tis  not  like  to  be.    Nay,  surely  'tis  not  like. 

BOEMOND 

Well,  speak  it  out  and  let  us  judge  of  that. 


44  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ISSACHAR 

There  is  a  man,  my  lord,  a  member  of  our  wander- 
ing race,  whose  name's  a  whisper  round  the  fires  o' 
nights.  In  Kupros  I  have  heard  of  him — in  Candia, 
too,  and  I  have  spoke  with  those  who  heard  his  name 
in  other  cities  and  in  other  tongues. 

[As  they  begin  t»  listen  intently  to  the  note  of 
mystery  in  his  voice,  Joanne  de  Beau- 
dricourt  descends  the  steps  from  the 
gallery,  followed  by  Godfrey,  Duke  of 
Normandy.  They  distract  their  attention 
for  a  moment  as  they  bow  to  her.  She  bows 
before  Boemond. 

JOANNE 

You  sent  for  me,  my  lord. 

BOEMOND 

I  did,  and  will  inform  you  of  my  purpose;  but  let 
this  Jew  progress.  He  tells  a  tale  that  does  invite  my 
curiosity.     Now,  Jew,  this  man 

ISSACHAR 

Tis  he,  my  lord,  they  call  the  Wandering  Jew. 

RAYMOND 

I've  heard  of  him — a  myth— surely  there  is  no 
substance  in  the  tale. 

BOEMOND 

What  tale? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  45 

ISSACHAR 

Tis  said,  my  lord,  that  as  your  Christ  did  carry  up 
His  cross  to  Calvary,  this  man,  a  citizen  of  Jerusalem, 
spat  in  His  face  because  of  some  spite  he  bore,  and  that 
the  Nazarene  bade  him  walk  the  earth  until  He  should 
come  to  him  again.  So  for  these  thousand  years  and 
more  he  toils  the  ways  of  life,  a  man  such  as  he  was, 
without  an  added  year  upon  his  head,  wandering  and 
waiting  for  that  Christ  who — saving  your  presence — 
died  on  Calvary,  and  in  that  sepulchre  you  fight  for, 
lies  buried  with  the  dust. 

GODFREY 

{Half  drawing  his  sword.)  For  that  blasphemy, 
Jew,  your  throat  may  slit ! 

BOEMOND 

Put  back  your  weapon!  He  would  not  be  a  Jew 
without  such  faith,  and  we  might  be  ill  put  to  it 
without  our  Jew.  Count  those  ten  thousand  crowns 
in  Mitylene. 

JOANNE 

Of  whom  do  you  speak,  my  lord? 

BOEMOND 

Of  this  strange  knight  who  plucks  the  honours  of 
our  lists  today. 

JOANNE 

{With  a  lively  interest.)  But  what,  my  lord,  has 
that  to  do  with  the  man  the  Jew  speaks  of? 


46  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ISSACHAR 

Might  he  not  be  the  same,  fair  lady?     He  does 
appear  in  any  place — in  any  guise. 

JOANNE 

The  same !    Nay,  God  forbid ! 

BOEMOND 

For  all  we  know  of  him — why  not? 

GODFREY 

Yesterday  he  held  you  in  converse  as  we  left  the 
lists. 

RAYMOND 

How  did  he  speak? 


JOANNE 

As  any  ordinary  man,  save  that  his  voice  was- 
(She  hesitates,  finding  need  for  caution.) 


BOEMOND 

His  voice  was  what  ? 

JOANNE 

A  fuller,  nobler  voice,  my  lord.  A  voice  that  had 
the  note  of  things  eternal — a  voice  that  sure  could  not 
revile. 

BOEMOND 

(Watching  her  closely.)  Of  what  eternal  things  did 
he  speak  with  all  the  sweat  of  jousting  on  his  brow? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  47 

JOANNE 

(Confused.)  My  lord — it — it  was  not  what  he  said. 
He  spoke  no  more  than  of  the  fortune  of  the  lists.  It 
was  the  temper  of  his  voice  I  heard. 

RAYMOND 

What  is  he  like  to  look  on? 

JOANNE 

I  do  not  know. 

BOEMOND 

He  did  not  raise  his  vizor  as  he  talked  with  you? 

JOANNE 

No,  my  lord  Prince. 

[The  trumpets  sound  in  the  lists  for  the  last 
encounter  of  the  tournament.  The  chal- 
lenge is  answered  by  trumpets  in  another 
direction.  The  voices  of  the  heralds  can  be 
heard  crying  out  the  terms  of  the  tourney \ 
and  the  voices  of  the  people  begin  to  be 
heard  again,  eager  and  excited. 

GODFREY 

There  sounds  his  fierce  challenge  to  du  Guesclin. 

[Joanne  still  stands  down  S.C.,  her  hands 
clasped  in  the  strain  of  control.  Issa- 
char  is  standing  at  S.R.  watching  her. 


48  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

JOANNE 

(Turning  and,  with  a  cautious  glance  at  the  gallery, 
coming  towards  him.)  Can  there  be  such  a  man  as  he 
you  speak  of,  Jew? 

ISSACHAR 

(Bowing  with  servility.)  Lady,  I  have  but  heard  of 
him.  He  comes  and  goes  about  the  world,  and  last 
was  seen  a  more  than  fifty  years  ago  in  Mitylene,  where 
I  have  a  son. 

JOANNE 

How  does  he  come?    Where  does  he  go? 

ISSACHAR 

He  comes  as  one  would  push  his  way  into  a  crowd, 
and  when  his  name  is  whispered  round  about,  as 
though  it  were  the  echo  of  his  curse,  he  goes  and  none 
know  whither. 

[The  final  trumpet  sounds  in  the  lists.  Joanne 
looks  towards  the  sound  in  apprehensive 
emotion. 

JOANNE 

There  sounds  the  last  challenge.  Get  you  to  the 
people  there  and  watch  above  their  heads.  The  Sieur 
du  Guesclin  sets  his  heart  on  victory. 

[Issachar  hurries  to  the  palisade  which  en- 
closes the  people  and  men-at-arms,  climb- 
ing up  so  that  he  can  look  over  their  heads. 
Ashe  does  so,  the  roar  of  the  horses'  hoofs 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  49 

draws  nearer,  and  then  the  Unknown 
Knight,  in  full  armour  as  before,  thun- 
ders by.  As  he  passes  out  of  sight  to  S.R. 
Joanne  creeps  up  S.  so  that  she  is  beside 
Issachar,  who  is  craning  forward  to  see 
the  issue.  The  crashing  sound  of  armour 
can  be  heard  again  in  the  distance  as  they 
meet. 

JOANNE 

{Shuddering  at  the  sound  of  it.)     Who  falls? 

[The  people,  who  have  been  watching  in  absolute 
silence,  now  send  up  a  great  shout. 

ISSACHAR 

{Half  looking  round.)     Du  Guesclin  falls. 

[Joanne  clasps  her  hands  with  momentary 
relief.     Issachar  looks  again. 

ISSACHAR 

The  strange  knight  has  dismounted  in  the  closing 
of  an  eye. 

JOANNE 

Aye,  aye!  they  fight  with  swords.  'Tis  to  the 
death.    What  now? 

ISSACHAR 

{After  a  pause,  craning  still  further  forward,  then 
stepping  down.)  Du  Guesclin  could  not  rise  and  he 
has  spared  his  life. 

4 


50  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

JOANNE 

Ah,  there  was  a  Christian  deed!  That  was  a 
knightly  thing  to  do!     See!     He  rides  back. 

[The  strange  Knight  passes  as  before. 

JOANNE 

Hark  how  the  people  cheer  him  for  his  chivalry! 
Let  there  be  no  more  talk,  Jew,  of  revilers  on  your 
lips.  Get  back  amongst  the  people  and  if  they  ask 
you  who  he  is,  tell  them  a  Christian  knight,  who  keeps 
his  heart  for  chivalry. 

[Issachar  bows  himself  out  of  her  presence. 
The  people  up  S.  can  be  seen  now  standing 
up  as  they  move  out  of  their  seats.  There 
is  much  noise  and  laughter  and  waving 
of  scarves,  and  then  the  sound  of  music, 
as  before,  rises  above  it  all.  Joanne 
comes  down  S.  still  clasping  her  hands  in 
joy  at  the  issue  of  the  tournament.  Stand- 
ing a  moment  in  contemplation,  she  turns 
quickly  with  a  sudden  thought  to  go  up  the 
steps  to  the  gallery.  As  she  reaches  them 
the  Unknown  Knight  enters  from  behind 
the  galleries  down  S.L.  She  turns  as  she 
hears  the  sound  of  his  armour.  His  vizor 
is  down  and  his  face  cannot  be  seen. 

KNIGHT 

The  sun  has  all  gone  out  of  Heaven.  You  were 
not  there  to  see. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  51 

JOANNE 

(She  comes  down  to  him.)    He  was  so  sure  of  victory. 

KNIGHT 

(Laughing.)  So  sure  was  he?  Well,  so  sure  was 
I !    And  so  you  feared  to  see  the  end  ? 

JOANNE 

I  did,  my  lord.     (She  bows  her  head.) 

KNIGHT 

Not  all  withstanding  that  I  told  you  I  had  followed 
full  five-hundred  miles  across  the  breadth  of  Europe 
with  these  Crusader's  arms  to  keep  in  sight  of  you,  and 
then  to  meet  you  thus?  Not  all  withstanding  that, 
you  did  mistrust  the  fate  that  brought  me? 

JOANNE 

Death  finds,  my  lord.    We  cannot  hide  from  that. 

KNIGHT 

Well,  let  it  seek  me  first.  It  did  not  search  today, 
and  with  the  morrow  I'll  be  gone. 

JOANNE 

(In  a  whisper.)     Gone? 

KNIGHT 

Gone.     Does  that  hurt  you? 

JOANNE 

Why,  my  lord? 


52  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

KNIGHT 

This  is  a  pot  all  simmering  with  curiosity.     I  go 
before  it  boils. 

JOANNE 

And  shall  we  never  meet  again? 


KNIGHT 

Yes. 

JOANNE 

(Eelow  her  breath.)     When? 

KNIGHT 

Tonight.  Come  to  my  tent  tonight.  The  moon 
is  low  and  still  scarce  fledged.  There's  none  will  see 
you  pass. 

JOANNE 

My  husband,  my  lord. 

KNIGHT 

Damned  be  such  husbands!  He  is  no  mate  for 
you.  Too  well  you  know  it  to  play  caution  with  me 
now. 

JOANNE 

(Trembling  with  emotion.)  And  must  I  come  with 
eyes  all  blind,  that  shall  not  know  the  man  my  honour 
lies  with? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  53 

KNIGHT 

(Laughing.)  Ah,  you  are  simmering  with  the 
rest!  What  is  my  face  to  teach  you  better  what  I 
am?  Full  well  you  know  the  man  you  meet.  'Tis 
in  my  voice;  'tis  in  this  hand  that  held  my  lance. 
(Striking  his  breast.)  'Tis  here  in  all  of  me.  Farewell, 
I  know  I  need  not  ask  again.  Come  to  my  tent,  and 
you  shall  look  into  my  eyes  tonight. 

[As  swiftly  as  he  came  he  leaves  her  in  a  whirl 
of  emotion.  She  stands  at  S.C.  with  her 
breast  rising  and  falling  as  she  breathes, 
staring  before  her — swept  away  by  the 
power  of  his  conviction. 

CURTAIN 


54  THE  WANDERING  JEW 


SCENE   II 
Seven  hours  later 

Scene 

The  interior  of  the  Knight's  tent.  Down  S.L.  there 
is  a  couch  of  Eastern  design.  Down  S.R.  a  rough  table 
with  a  seat  before  it.  Up  S.C.  is  the  entrance  to  the 
tent,  across  which  a  broad  flap  of  the  canvas  stretches, 
shutting  out  the  deep  blue  of  the  Eastern  night. 

On  the  table  a  lamp  of  Oriental  design  is  burning, 
giving  a  dim  yellow  light  inside  the  tent.  The  couch  is 
covered  with  a  purple  pall.  In  the  dim  light  the  green 
of  the  grass  looks  almost  black. 

As  curtain  rises,  Phirons,  the  Knight's  servitor 
or  man-at-arms,  is  standing  at  the  entrance  to  the  tent, 
holding  aside  the  flap  and  looking  out  when  the  blue  night 
sky  can  be  seen  with  its  dust  of  stars. 

The  Knight,  dressed  in  a  robe,  close  fitting,  of  a 
very  deep  wine  red,  such  as  the  Knights  wore  when  they 
had  discarded  their  armour,  lies  on  the  couch  with  his 
back  turned  to  the  audience,  his  eyes  fixed  upon  his  servi- 
tor, who  waits  at  the  entrance  of  the  tent. 

In  silence,  these  attitudes  should  be  held  as  long  as 
possible. 

KNIGHT 

(After  a  long  pause.)     No  sight?     No  sound? 

PHIRONS 


JPH1KON5 

None,  my  lord.     The  night's  asleep, 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  55 

KNIGHT 

Why,  sure  it  sleeps;  her  feet  would  not  awaken 
it.     If  there's  no  sound,  'tis  that  she  comes  all  safe. 

[After  another  pause  a  bell  is  heard  tolling  in 
the  far  distance  of  the  camp. 

KNIGHT 

What  is  that  bell  ? 

[They  pause  and  listen,  when  a  voice  far  away 
is  heard  calling:  "  Unclean — Unclean — 
Unclean." 

PHIRONS 

A  leper  passing  through  the  camp. 

KNIGHT 

{For  the  moment  forgetting  the  interest  of  his  antici- 
pation.) "Unclean,"  he  cries.  Poor  scum  of  earth! 
He  wanders  searching  for  a  bed  whereon  to  lie  his 
rotting  bones,  and  yet  so  foul  his  flesh  that  none  will 
give  it  him.  There  many  are  as  foul  of  heart  who  lie 
on  beds  of  feather  down,  but  get  less  honest  sleep  than 
he.  (As  Phirons  bends  down  the  better  to  observe  some- 
thing that  he  sees.)     What  do  you  see? 

phirons 
A  figure  moves  between  the  tents,  now  comes  into 
my  eyes — now  gone. 

KNIGHT 

Man  or  woman? 


56  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

PHIRONS 

I  cannot  tell. 

KNIGHT 

(Rising — clasping  his  hands.)  Then  I  can  tell. 
Each  step  that  figure  takes  falls  here.  (He  strikes 
his  hand  on  his  heart,  then  with  settled  deliberation  he 
crosses  swiftly  to  a  chest  that  stands  against  the  canvas  up 
S.R.,  taking  from  it  first  one  sword,  trying  it,  then  an- 
other. Finally  he  selects  an  Oriental  scimitar  and,  closing 
the  chest,  comes  down  to  S.C.)  Leave  watching  and 
come  here  to  me.  (Phirons  comes  to  his  side.)  This 
is  a  blade  I  would  not  lose  for  twice  one  thousand 
crowns.  Take  it,  and  when  my  lady  comes  keep  you  a 
guard  outside  the  tent  as  close  as  your  last  drop  of 
blood  can  make  it.  Get  you  without  now  and  let  her 
enter  as  she  wills. 

[Phirons  takes  the  sword,  handles  the  weight 
of  it,  bows  to  his  master,  and  then  exits 
by  tent  entrance. 
[The  Knight  stands  with  his  back  to  the  audi- 
ence, absolutely  still,  the  whole  line  of  his 
figure  suggesting  the  intense  emotion  of  his 
anticipation  as  he  watches  the  entrance. 
As  he  stands  there  the  flap  of  the  tent 
is  drawn  aside  and  Joanne,  hooded  and 
in  a  rich  blue  cloak,  comes  hurriedly  into 
the  tent.  Without  a  word  of  welcome  the 
Knight  immediately  goes  up  S.,  hanging 
a  curtain  across  the  entrance;  then  turning 
and  coming  down  S.  to  her  as  she  stands 
there,  half-nervous,  half -amazed  at  her  own 
enterprise,  facing  the  lights. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  57 

KNIGHT 

(At  her  side.)  Now  are  your  eyes  open  ?  Now  can 
you  see  the  man  I  am?  (He  stands  before  her  as  she 
looks  at  him.) 

JOANNE 

(Her  head  droops  as  her  eyes  fall  before  the  passion 
in  his.)     'Twas  true  you  said  I  knew. 

KNIGHT 

What  is  this  cloak?  (He  comes  to  her  to  take  it  off.) 
We  do  not  need  disguises  here.  Here  are  we — our  two 
selves.    Let  me  see  you,  as  you  see  me. 

[Slowly  she  takes  off  the  cloak,  revealing  herself 
in  the  long,  loose  gown  of  that  period. 
He  takes  the  cloak  from  her,  placing  it  on 
the  seat  by  the  table,  then  returning  to  her, 
feasting  his  eyes  with  her  and  taking  her 
hands  in  his.] 

JOANNE 

Why  have  I  come,  my  lord?  Can  you  explain  me 
that?  It  was  a  dream  I  walked  in,  as  I  came  here 
to  your  tent.  And  shame  I  had  for  company,  yet 
could  not  turn  me  back.  Have  you  the  power  of 
magic  in  your  voice,  or  what  spell  was  it  drew  me  here 
as  though,  were  the  world  ending,  I  could  not  refuse? 

KNIGHT 

'Twas  love  that  brought  you,  and  when  'tis  love 
that  brings,  it  carries  in  a  whirlwind  none  can  stay. 


58  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

JOANNE 

Then  is  this  love,  my  lord?  If  so,  'twill  be  a  bitter 
thing  with  all  its  sweetness,  and  leave  upon  the  tongue 
a  taste  that  lingers  with  remorse. 

KNIGHT 

I  do  not  know  remorse. 

JOANNE 

Why,  then,  you  pay  no  price,  and  some  things  are 
the  sweeter  that  they  cost  the  more. 

KNIGHT 

How  should  you  know  what  price  I  pay?  Both  of 
us  here,  we  bargain  to  forget — you,  that  besotted  thing 
your  life  is  unioned  with,  and  now  you  hesitate  to  pay 
the  cost.  And  I — what  price  is  mine?  An  hour's 
oblivion  in  your  arms  and  at  such  a  rate  of  usury  that 
I  can  never  hope  discharge  the  debt.  {He  strides  up 
to  the  curtain  and  half  pulls  it  aside.)  Go,  lady,  if  you 
will.  I  will  not  steal  forgetfulness.  But  here  and 
there  and  every  place  I  go,  I  take  it  where  I  can.  Go, 
if  you  will — my  man-at-arms  has  charge  alone  to  hin- 
der those  who  come  within. 

[Joanne  stands  without  movement  down  S.C. 
Watching  her  for  a  moment  and  waiting 
for  her  answer,  he  drops  the  curtain  and 
comes  back  to  her. 

KNIGHT 

You  do  not  go? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  59 

JOANNE 

(Looking  up  with  passionate  submission  into  his 
eyes.)     I  cannot  go,  my  lord. 

[He  seizes  her  hands  and  a  moment  holds  them 
as  he  looks  into  her  eyes,  then,  in  the  full 
abandonment  of  passion,  catches  her  in  his 
arms,  covering  her  neck  and  face  with 
kisses. 

KNIGHT 

When  first  I  saw  you  in  the  streets  of  Tarsus,  I  saw 
this  moment  then. 

JOANNE 

(Amazed.)    You  saw  me  then,  my  lord?    But  how? 

KNIGHT 

(Leading  her  to  the  couch  and  sitting  beside  her.)  I 
was  amongst  the  crowd  of  those  to  watch  the  Crusad- 
ing Arms  pass  by. 

JOANNE 

And  straightway  then ? 

KNIGHT 

From  that  one  moment's  glance  I  knew,  and,  fol- 
lowing at  my  distance,  came  to  Antioch.  I've  watched 
that  man  your  life  is  wedded  to.  I've  watched  the 
hunger  in  your  eyes.  I've  chid  it  bide  its  time,  the 
hunger  in  my  heart,  well  knowing  that  this  hour  would 
come — (he  takes  her  hands  and  passionately  kisses 
them) — when  I  could  call  you  mine. 


60  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

JOANNE 

How  found  you  then  this  entry  to  the  lists  ? 

KNIGHT 

Nothing  so  easy  when  the  heart  is  set  on  what's 
to  do. 

JOANNE 

And  yet  you  put  your  life  to  hazard  when  most 
you  needed  it  ? 

KNIGHT 

'Twas  that  way  only  I  could  catch  your  eye. 

JOANNE 

(Touching  his  hands  gently.)  But  such  a  risk,  my 
lord.  Without  a  certain  knowledge  I  must  too  have 
known,  yet  I  was  not  as  sure  as  you,  for  that  was  why 
I  dared  not  watch  the  last  encounter.  The  Sieur  du 
Guesclin  had  it  deep  within  his  heart  to  slay  you  for 
the  honour  of  our  arms.  From  all  they  said  I  had 
made  sure  he  would  achieve  his  end.  Had  you  no  fear 
of  death  yourself? 

KNIGHT 

I?  Fear  of  death?  (He  pauses  as  though  he  were 
about  to  tell  her  all  his  history  and  then  refrains.)  What 
should  I  fear?     I  knew  the  day  was  mine ! 

JOANNE 

(Faintly  surprised  at  his  conviction.)  Knew?  How 
could  you  know  ? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  61 

KNIGHT 

(Realising  he  has  said  too  much.)  Did  I  not  know 
that  you  were  waiting  on  the  hour?  (Pressing  his 
heart.)     Knew  I  not  here  you  could  not  wait  in  vain! 

JOANNE 

I  never  met  a  man  so  sure  of  Fate  as  you. 

KNIGHT 

(Laying  his  hands  on  her  shoulders.)  You  never 
met  a  man  so  burnt  with  love  as  I.  That  is  the  fate  of 
us,  and  'tis  of  that  I'm  sure.  You  will  not  call  it  love. 
What  is  it,  then,  to  feel  the  very  substance  of  my  being 
stronger  than  death  so  it  may  claim  you  out  of  all 
the  world? 

JOANNE 

(The  strength  of  her  mind  giving  way  to  his.)  You 
speak  of  the  body,  but  love  is  of  the  soul.  Could  you 
not  love  me  thus,  my  lord? 

KNIGHT 

The  soul!  What  soul  have  I?  Souls  only  from 
dead  bodies  do  depart,  and  here  I  live  and  still  shall 
live  to  burn  your  lips  with  mine.  (He  kisses  her.)  As 
thus — (he  kisses  her  again) — and  thus,  until  no  breath 
is  left  to  kiss  you  with.  (He  holds  her  to  him  and  kisses 
her  again  and  again.) 

JOANNE 

(Leaning  away  from  him,  gasping  for  her  breath  and 
feeling  on  her  breast  for  a  stone  pendant  that  hangs  about 


62  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

her  neck.)  This  hurts  my  breast,  my  lord,  and  yet  I 
hardly  felt  the  pain  of  it.  (She  takes  it  off  and  with 
a  sudden  impulse  puts  it  in  his  hand.)  It  is  an  emerald 
stone  my  father  gave  me.  Take  it,  my  lord — 'tis 
yours.  You've  crushed  it  in  my  heart.  No  hand 
could  steal  the  memory  of  it  now.  (As  he  hesitates.) 
'Tis  yours.  Keep  it  for  memory,  as  I  will  keep  the 
pain. 

KNIGHT 

(Looking  at  it  in  the  palm  of  his  hand  and  laying  it 
down  in  acceptance  on  the  couch.  Then  turning  to  her 
again  and  taking  her  fiercely  in  his  arms  so  that  she  leans 
back  against  the  shoulder  of  the  couch.)  This  night, 
maybe,  will  not  see  out  the  end.  You  will  not  call  it 
love?  I'll  make  you  call  it  love.  So  deep  we'll  drink 
oblivion  in  each  other's  arms,  you'll  lose  all  sense  of 
petty  squabblings  in  your  heart  of  right  or  wrong. 
And  when  the  parting  comes,  I'll  bear  it  as  I've  borne 
before. 

JOANNE 

Why  should  we  part,  my  lord? 

KNIGHT 

Death — that  will  steal  you  from  me. 

JOANNE 

Might  we  not  die  together — might  we  not  die,  and 
even  now? 

KNIGHT 

Not  now.  (He  partly  releases  his  hold  of  her  as  his 
mind  centres  for  the  instant  on  his  fate.)    Not  even  then. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  63 

'Tis  I  must  taste  the  bitterness  of  that.  (She  raises 
herself  on  her  elbow  to  look  at  him.  He  thrusts  his 
thoughts  from  him  and  takes  her  arms  to  bind  them  round 
his  neck.)  Hold  fast  your  arms  about  me.  Now  for 
this  earthly  moment  I  can  live  and  yet  forget. 

[Just  as  he  is  about  to  take  her  in  his  arms,  she 
loosens  her  arms  from  his  neck  and  with  a 
look  of  horror  that  is  yet  no  more  than  first 
suspicion,  she  presses  him  from  her. 

JOANNE 

What  is  this  thing  you  are  so  eager  to  forget  ? 

KNIGHT 

(Trying  to  hold  her  to  him.)  Pay  you  no  heed  to 
what  I  say!     All  my  talk's  madness  now. 

JOANNE 

(Beginning  to  struggle  now  to  hold  him  from  her.) 
Was  it  madness  to  say  the  parting  would  be  yours? 
To  say  we  could  not  die  together,  you  and  I?  Why 
should  we  not?  Why  should  we  not?  Death  is  for 
me  in  God's  good  time;  you  said  that  death  would 
be  for  me.  Why  not  for  you  ?  Speak  to  me !  Speak ! 
Why  not  for  you  ? 

KNIGHT 

What  is  the  meaning  of  those  questions  heaping  up  ? 
Where  is  the  doubt  they  build  on?  Are  you  not  sure 
that  all  my  heart  beats  here  to  love  you  with? 


64  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

JOANNE 

{Following  the  train  of  her  thought,  dogged  by  the 
increasing  suspicion  in  her  mind.)  You  had  not  fear 
of  death.  The  day  was  yours,  you  said — you  knew  it. 
He  could  not  kill  you  for  you  knew  your  fate ;  and  then 
again,  an  hour's  oblivion  in  my  arms  and  at  such  rate 
of  usury  as  you  could  never  hope  discharge.  In  God's 
name,  who  are  you  ? 

KNIGHT 

{Catching  her  as  she  is  about  to  rise  in  horror  from  his 
side,  and  bearing  her  back  on  the  couch  as  she  struggles  to 
free  herself.)     'Tis  all  too  late  to  ask  me  that. 

JOANNE 

Too  late  to  ask — but  not  too  late  to  know. 

[Such  horror  and  loathing  is  there  in  her  voice 
that  at  the  sound  of  these  words  he  is  for  an 
instant  arrested,  and  insensibly  relaxes  his 
hold  of  her  as  he  gazes  at  the  horror  in  her 
face. 

KNIGHT 

What  do  you  know  ? 

JOANNE 

{Slipping  from  his  arms  and  rising  from  the  couch  as 
she  retreats  from  him.)     'Tis  he  they  spoke  of 

KNIGHT 

Who  spoke?    Of  whom? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  65 

JOANNE 

Of  one  who  comes  and  goes  about  the  world. 
(Shuddering  as  she  stares  at  him.)  Of  one  so  vile,  that 
even  lepers  would  not  beg  their  alms  of  him. 

KNIGHT 

(Rising — a  different  man  before  her  knowledge.) 
Whom  do  you  speak  of  with  such  bitter  tongue? 

JOANNE 

Of  him  that  did  blaspheme  the  light  of  God.  Of 
him  they  call  the  Wandering  Jew.  (She  searches  him 
with  her  eyes.  He  meets  her  gaze.)  Where's  your  denial 
if  you  do  find  the  words  are  bitter  on  my  tongue  ? 

KNIGHT 

I'll  not  deny.  Tis  true  I  spat  upon  the  Nazarene, 
and  I  would  spit  again  if  He  did  cross  my  way. 

JOANNE 

(Recoiling  from  him.)  Oh !  What  horror  then  have 
I  escaped!  So  near  you'd  found  the  depths  of  me. 
So  near  you'd  beckoned  me  to  follow  you  to  Hell. 
(Laughing  hysterically.)  And  I  did  try  persuasions 
with  you  it  was  love.  Love !  What  could  you  know 
of  love?  "What  soul  have  I?"  you  said.  Indeed! 
What  soul !  And  what  soul  ever  will  you  have  in  all 
the  age  of  time  who  only  know  the  hunger  of  the 
beasts  ?  And  I  had  thought  you  brave  to  play  at  haz- 
ard in  the  lists  with  Death.  Brave !  Why  should  you 
fear?    You  cannot  taste  of  Death  until  He  comes  to 


66  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

you  again,  nor  will  He  ever  come  until  you  have  a  soul 
above  the  dust.  (She  goes  to  the  stool  on  which  her 
cloak  is  lying  and  picks  it  up.) 

KNIGHT 

(As  she  puts  her  cloak  about  her.)  I  bid  you  go  be- 
fore. Was  that  such  hunger  as  you  say?  But  now 
when  you  have  touched  your  body  against  mine  be- 
think you  not  that  I  might  make  you  stay  ?  Who  is  to 
hinder  me  ? 

JOANNE 

Not  who — but  what  ?  Is  not  the  loathing  such  as 
this  I  have  a  sword  to  shield  me?  For  when  I  think 
that  mine  have  touched  those  lips  that  spat  on  Christ ! 
Oh,  sainted  Mother!     Shall  I  ever  wash  them  clean? 

[She  pulls  her  cloak  about  her  in  readiness  to  go 
and  makes  a  movement  towards  the  en- 
trance of  the  tent. 

KNIGHT 

(Swiftly  crossing  to  her  and  seizing  her  by  the  wrist.) 
Bethink  you  it  means  aught  to  me  of  love  or  loathing, 
now  my  need  is  set?  (Against  all  her  efforts  of  resist- 
ance he  takes  her  in  his  arms.)  These  lips  shall  kiss 
again — (he  kisses  her) — and  yet  again.  And  hating  me 
will  only  add  a  savour  to  the  taste  of  them.  (As  she 
struggles  in  his  arms  he  laughs  at  her  efforts.)  Fight  on, 
brave  bird!  The  net  is  fast  about  you!  If  this  be 
Hell,  you  have  come  too  far  down  the  road  to  turn 
your  footsteps  back.     If  this  be  vile,  you've  sinned  too 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  67 

far  already  in  your  mind  for  cheating  God,  and  shall 
not  cheat  me  with  your  body  now. 

[He  is  just  about  to  lift  her  in  his  arms  to  carry 
her  to  the  couch  when  the  bell  is  heard  again 
in  the  distance,  a  little  nearer  than  before, 
and  the  voice  cries  in  the  same  monotonous 
tone:  "  Unclean — Unclean — Unclean." 
Involuntarily  his  arms  relax  from  her  as  he 
listens,  and  finding  herself  free  she  creeps 
towards  the  entrance  of  the  tent,  keeping  her 
eyes  on  him  as  she  goes,  expecting  him 
every  moment  to  take  her  again  by  force. 
Her  last  steps  are  hurried  as  she  goes  out. 

[Exit  Joanne. 

[He  stands  at  S.C.  watching  her  as  she  goes, 
dazed  in  this  first  realisation  of  himself. 

KNIGHT 

{In  the  first  awakening  of  his  mind  to  the  purpose  of 
his  soul.)     Unclean. 

CURTAIN 


PHASE  III 


69 


CHARACTERS 


Matteo  Bottadio 
Andrea  Michelotti 

PlETRO  MORELLI       . 

Mario  . 
Gianella  Bottadio 


A  Merchant. 
A  Padre. 
A  Servant. 
Matteo's  Wife. 


71 


PHASE  III 
period,  i29o  a.d. 

Scene 

A  room  in  the  house  of  Matteo  Bottadio,  the 
Wandering  Jew,  in  this  period  a  rich  merchant  of  the 
city  of  Palermo,  in  Sicily. 

There  is  a  curtained  entrance  down  S.L.  Up  S., 
across  the  full  breadth  of  the  stage,  stretches  a  loggia,  over- 
grown with  grape  vines,  through  the  openings  of  which 
can  be  seen  in  the  distance  the  deep  blue  curve  of  the  bay, 
while  in  the  middle  distance  to  the  left  rises  a  hill  grey 
with  olive  trees,  on  the  summit  of  which  can  be  seen  the 
white  tower  of  the  church  and  the  white  walls  of  the  con- 
vent of  Santa  Maria  di  Latinis. 

As  curtain  rises,  stage  is  empty,  but  immediately 
there  appears  on  the  loggia  Andrea  Michelotti.  He 
rings  a  bell  that  is  hanging  from  one  of  the  rafters. 
Scarcely  waiting  for  his  summons  to  be  answered,  he 
rings  again. 

Enter  Mario  hurriedly  through  curtained  entrance  S.L. 

MARIO 

Sir? 

ANDREA 

I  am  Andrea  Michelotti,  merchant  of  Messina. 
I  am  a  friend  of  your  master's  and  must  speak  with 
him  at  once. 

73 


74  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MARIO 

This  is  the  Sabbath,  sir;  my  master's  at  his  prayers. 


ANDREA 

Praying  will  not  avail  him  'gainst  the  case  I  bring. 
Since  when  has  he  thus  taken  to  his  knees? 


MARIO 

Since  that  his  son  was  dead,  sir,  he  has  been  long 
in  prayer  each  day. 

ANDREA 

When  did  the  boy  die? 

MARIO 

Two  weeks  have  gone  since  he  was  stricken  with 
the  sun.  They  brought  him  through  the  loggia  there 
when  they  had  found  him  near  yon  convent  on  the 
hill,  and  in  this  room  he  spent  an  hour  in  agony  ere 
he  died. 

ANDREA 

Well,  well — disturb  his  prayers,  lest  he  lose  more 
than  they  could  succour  him.  Tell  him  I  have  some 
news  that  needs  but  little  time  and  it  will  speak  itself. 

MARIO 

(Bowing.)     I  go  at  once,  sir. 

[Exit  Mario  S.L. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  75 

[Andrea  walks  up  and  down  the  room  in  great 
disturbance  of  mind.  As  he  stands  for 
a  moment  down  S.t  Pietro  Morelli,  the 
Padre,  walks  into  the  loggia  as  though  he 
were  about  to  enter  the  room.  Seeing 
Andrea,  he  turns  away.  Hearing  his 
footsteps,  Andrea  turns  just  too  late  to 
catch  sight  of  him.  In  curiosity  he 
moves  up  S.  and  looks  out.  He  is  in  this 
position  when  Matteo  Bottadio  enters 
at  S.L. 

ANDREA 

(Coming  hastily  down  S.  to  greet  him.)     Matteo! 
(They  embrace.) 

matteo 

What  is  this  news  that  cannot  wait  the  offer  of  a 
single  prayer? 

ANDREA 

Matteo,  the  Emperor  has  undertaken  war. 

MATTEO 

War !     May  he  grow  rich  upon  it ! 

ANDREA 

(Significantly.)     He  needs  his  riches  first. 

MATTEO 

(Seizing  him  by  the  arm  he  realises  the  significance 
of  this.)     Speak  out,  Andrea.     Say  the  worst. 


76  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ANDREA 

Our  time  of  peace  is  over,  Matteo.  The  persecu- 
tion has  begun  again. 

MATTEO 

Where?    Where  does  it  fester  now? 

ANDREA 

Three  Jews  but  yesterday  were  killed  in  the  town 
of  Messina,  and  all  their  goods  were  confiscated  by  the 
State.  Three  days  ago,  there  in  Ajaccio,  six  more 
were  taken,  two  under  torture,  four  burnt  at  the  stake. 
Our  few  short  years  of  peace  are  gone. 

MATTEO 

Your  sign  is  sure  enough.  This  scourge  of  perse- 
cution is  a  fire  which,  with  a  favouring  wind  to  fan  it, 
spreads  like  contagion  through  the  land.  Oft  have  I 
watched  its  flames  lick  up  the  startled  heavens,  whilst 
all  across  the  breadth  of  Europe  lifted  the  cries  of  our 
unhappy  race.  (In  despair.)  What  is  this  curse  that 
wreaks  itself  on  them — and  me ! 

ANDREA 

You  know  as  well  as  I  the  thing  they  say. 

MATTEO 

(Half  to  himself.)     That  we  did  crucify  their  Christ. 

ANDREA 

A  Jew  as  we  are!  Had  we  no  right  to  mete  out 
justice  to  our  own? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  77 

MATTEO 

(Turning  away  from  him.)  And  yet — for  well-nigh 
thirteen  hundred  years !  What  an  eternity  of  punish- 
ment to  have  lived ! 

ANDREA 

'Twill  be  our  last,  Matteo,  if  we  do  not  set  Palermo 
at  our  backs  tonight. 

MATTEO 

(Turning  quickly  and  coming  to  him  in  a  sudden 
fear  of  realisation.)  Our  last,  Andrea!  Why  should 
I  fear  that  now? 

ANDREA 

Your  blood  is  warm,  Matteo.  Why  wonder  that 
a  fear  of  death  should  chill  it?  You  are  a  young  man 
still. 

MATTEO 

(With  a  hollow  and  bitter  laugh.)  Still!  Still! 
(His  tone  changes.)  I  am  a  man,  Andrea,  who  has 
heaped  out  the  bitterness  of  life  with  things  his  hands 
can  finger  and  his  heart  can  call  his  own.  These  only 
do  remain  while  those  we  cherish  most  come  to  the  dust 
and  leave  no  particle  for  memory.  Where  is  my  son 
now  who,  but  a  few  days  gone,  was  clinging  in  my 
arms?  The  dust  is  in  his  eyes  that  once  were  bright 
with  love.  Let  but  a  year  pass  by  and  I  could  take 
him  in  my  hand  as  thus — (he  holds  out  his  hand  as 
though  it  were  full  of  dust) — and  let  him  filter  through 
my  fingers.  (He  strides  across  to  a  table,  picking  up  a 
jewelled  crucifix  that  is  lying  there.)  'Tis  only  such  as 
this  remain.     I  bought  it  yesterday.     A  beggar  had  it 


78  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

'neath  his  shirt  against  the  withered  parchment  of 
his  breast,  and  hugged  it  there  until  the  piece  of  gold 
I  played  with  coaxed  it  from  him.  These  gems  are 
rare.  'Tis  worth  a  thousand  crowns  of  gold.  And  yet 
— (he  holds  it  out  before  him) — though  it  is  mine —  (He 
suddenly  raises  his  hand  to  dash  it  to  the  ground.) 

ANDREA 

(In  consternation  at  the  thought  of  its  destruction, 
taking  it  from  him.)  Matteo!  Why  destroy  it  ?  You 
might  sell  it  for  a  noble  sum. 

MATTEO 

(Taking  it  greedily  from  Andrea's  hand.)  Then 
give  it  me.  'Tis  mine.  I'd  no  real  thought  to  break 
it.  (Looking  at  it  strangely.)  I  should  have  once. 
Time  was  when  I  had  had  no  fear. 

ANDREA 

(Laying  his  hands  on  Matteo's  shoulder.)  Friend, 
you  speak  strangely,  and  for  the  Bottadio  I  knew  in 
Napoli  you  do,  unlike  yourself,  leave  the  certain  issue 
too  long  untouched  for  these  vague  speculations.  What 
if  it  should  be  fear  that  made  you  set  that  bauble 
down?  You  have  good  cause  for  it.  So  have  we  all. 
One  of  your  ships  lies  in  the  harbour  now.  Be  well 
advised  by  me  and  flee  tonight  with  all  that  you  pos- 
sess, and  ere  the  sun  rise  on  another  day,  up  anchor  and 
be  gone. 

MATTEO 

(Brushing  his  eyes  with  the  back  of  his  hand  as  he 
puts  the  thoughts  from  him.)     You  speak  well,  Andrea. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  79 

This  is  no  hour  for  wild  thoughts.  There  are  the  years 
all  yet  to  come.  (As  though  he  suddenly  realised  the 
full  force  of  the  fate  that  is  overtaking  them,  he  moves 
quickly  to  a  great  coffer  chest  at  S.R.,  unlocking  it  and 
beginning  to  take  out  silks  and  embroideries ,  bags  of 
money,  small  boxes  containing  precious  stones,  etc., 
talking  all  the  time  that  he  does  so.)  What  would  this 
be  worth  in  open  mart  of  Napoli  today?  (He  partly 
unrolls  a  bale  of  silk  and  spreads  it  out  for  Andrea  to 
see.) 

ANDREA 

(Feeling  it  with  the  touch  of  a  connoisseur.)  How 
did  you  come  by  this? 

MATTEO 

I  sang  a  song  and  it  fell  in  my  hands. 

ANDREA 

'Twas  not  spun  yesterday. 

MATTEO 

(Taking  it  from  him — almost  jealously — and  rolling 
it  up  with  hands  that  touch  with  love.)  Nor  yet  the  day 
before.  (He  lays  it  down,  then  out  of  the  chest  brings 
three  crucifixes,  one  after  the  other,  and  laughs  as  he 
holds  them  out.)  'Twould  make  you  think  I  had  some 
failing  in  my  heart  for  these.  (Smiling.)  Perhaps 
I  have.  Perhaps  it  turns  a  laugh  in  me  to  see  them 
sell  their  Christ;  for  when  their  fortunes  cross  them 
they're  all  eagerness  to  sell,  and  when  their  fortunes 
smile  they  flatter  Him  and — buy.  (Putting  down 
two  of  the  crucifixes  and  still  holding  one  in  his  hand 


80  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

and  looking  at  it  before  he  puts  it  down.)  Perhaps  I 
have  some  failing  in  my  heart  to  keep  this — thing — 
this  man — before  my  eyes.  (Turning.)  They  swear, 
Andrea,  that  He  has  risen  from  the  grave — and  some 
there  were  did  meet  and  speak  with  Him.  (Fiercely.) 
'Tis  all  a  lie !     He  has  not  come  the  way  of  earth  again. 


ANDREA 

Matteo — Matteo !  What  is  this  change  in  you  to 
linger  thus?  Speak!  Speak!  The  sun  is  dropping 
even  now. 

MATTEO 

(Putting  the  crucifix  with  other  things  and  going 
on  with  his  work.)  You're  right,  Andrea.  I  some- 
times feel  I  am  a  different  man.  (He  takes  some  other 
things  out  of  the  chest;  then  brings  out  a  little  box,  is  just 
about  to  put  it  down,  when  pride  of  possession  impels 
him  to  show  its  contents.  He  brings  out  a  big  emerald 
and  holds  it  up  to  the  light,  beckoning  to  Andrea  to  come 
and  look  at  it.)     'Twas  given  me. 


ANDREA 

Given?  What  fool  was  it  to  give  so  much  away? 
(He  wants  to  take  it  in  his  hands  but  Matteo  draws 
away.) 

MATTEO 

(Reminiscently.)     She   had  no  other  folly  than  a 
beating  heart. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  81 

ANDREA 

Where  did  she  give  it  you  ? 

MATTEO 

Outside  the  walls  of  Antioch. 

ANDREA 

When  were  you  in  Antioch  ? 

MATTEO 

(Smiling  to  himself.)     Some — years — ago. 

ANDREA 

You  are  a  strange  man,  Matteo.  Where  are  the 
places  that  your  feet  have  never  touched? 

MATTEO 

Where?  Nowhere.  I  have  travelled  long  and 
far.  (He  puts  the  box  away,  taking  more  things  out  of 
the  chest,  then,  coming  to  a  necklace  of  precious  stones, 
he  holds  that  up.)  I  bought  that  from  another  Jew  in 
Cyprus,  to  lie  on  Gianella's  neck — then  feared  that  she 
might  lose  it  and  locked  it  there.  Gianella!  (His 
whole  tone  changes  to  that  of  jealous  suspicion.)  Where 
have  my  thoughts  been  gone  since  you  did  come  here 
with  your  news?     I  cannot  go  tonight. 

ANDREA 

You  cannot  ? 

6 


82  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEO 

Cannot!  There  is  that  to  be  made  plain  to  me 
my  mind  is  all  confused  with.  My  boy  is  gone  from 
me.  {He  draws  Andrea  to  him.)  And  now  there 
steals  a  fear  in  me — my  wife! 


ANDREA 

She  too  is  ill  ? 

MATTEO 

111  at  heart,  Andrea. 

ANDREA 

Why,  there  it  is  the  sorrow  that  she  feels. 

MATTEO 

That  might  be  so.  She  was  distraught  with  grief, 
and  for  that  cause  I  counted  first  the  change  her 
manner  showed  to  me. 

ANDREA. 

What  change? 

MATTEO 

She  does  avoid  who  sought  me  once.  Turns  a 
deaf  ear  on  all  consolations.  Each  day  since  that 
our  boy  was  dead,  it  is  as  though  she  heard  some  voice 
that  called  her  from  my  side.  When  in  the  midst  of 
talking,  with  a  sigh  she  will  rise  up  and  leave  me. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  83 

ANDREA 

Grief  will  so  turn  a  woman.  Pity  can  never  heal 
the  wound  a  mother's  heart  sustains. 

MATTEO 

I  thought  so  too,  and  had  begun  to  set  my  count 
upon  it.  But  there's  some  spirit  come  into  the  house 
to  steal  her  from  me. 

ANDREA 

What  man  would  dare? 

MATTEO 

(Looking  out  towards  the  loggia,  then  closely  at  An- 
drea.) Pietro  Morelli,  a  padre  of  Palermo.  'Twas  he 
who  found  our  boy  up  by  the  convent  there.  He 
found  him  stretched  upon  the  hill  like  one  who  was 
already  dead,  and  in  his  arms  he  brought  him  here  and 
offered  help,  and  watched  with  us  beside  him  when  he 
died.  I  took  his  hand  in  friendship — that  hand  that 
robs  me  now.  I  bade  him  come  again — (bitterly) — and 
he  has  come;  again  when  I  was  here — again  when  I  was 
not.  Last  week  my  business  took  me  there  to  Napoli, 
and  when  I  did  return,  my  servant,  Mario,  told  me  he 
had  been  here  each  day — each  day  to  see  her. 

ANDREA 

Have  you  asked  her  of  this? 

MATTEO 

I  spoke  his  name  in  casual  way  and,  unsuspicious, 
she  did  lie  to  me.     He  had  been  there;  he  came  one 


84  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

day,  she  said,  to  make  his  kind  inquiries,  but  no  more. 
Lies !     Lies ! 

ANDREA 

'Twas  him  I  heard,  then,  while  I  waited  here.  I 
went  into  the  loggia  to  look  out  and  saw  the  shoulders 
of  a  man  in  black  drop  down  below  the  hill. 

MATTEO 

'Twas  he.  He  comes  to  meet  her,  presuming  on 
my  friendship,  and  trusting  for  chance  to  speak  with 
her  alone.  There's  that  in  progress  keeps  me  here 
tonight. 

ANDREA 

Why&ee^syou?  Load  all  you  have.  She's  yours. 
Load  all  you  have  and  then  be  gone. 

MATTEO 

Ah,  take  the  husk  and  leave  that  which  I  need  the 
most! 

ANDREA 

What  more  can  you  need  than  that  she  be  a  wife? 

MATTEO 

She  has  a  soul,  Andrea,  above  the  littleness  of  life. 
'Tis  that  I  cling  to  as  it  were  one  holding  to  a  floating 
spar  that  bears  his  head  above  the  water  of  a  tossing 
sea.  When  in  her  eyes  I  see  it  there,  I  almost  can 
believe  that  life  is  worth  the  courage  and  the  patience 
we  must  bring  to  live  it  with. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  85 

ANDREA 

How  then  could  such  an  one  prove  false  and  give 
her  body  for  a  Christian's  lust? 

MATTEO 

You  do  not  understand  me;  'tis  her  heart  she's 
given.  What  if  her  body  is  still  mine?  That  sure  I 
might  have  treasured  once,  but  now  her  heart  is  gone, 
and  what  is  left  for  touching's  but  the  soiling  clay. 

ANDREA 

You  do  not  know  this  yet.  Send  for  her  now  and 
tell  her  the  news  I  bring.  If  they  have  meetings  ready 
planned  she'll  fret  at  thought  of  going  and  dissemble 
and  postpone. 

MATTEO 

That  is  well  thought.  I'll  ask  her  which  she  sooner 
would,  that  we  go  now  or  take  the  treacherous  hazard 
of  another  day;  and  if  she  hangs  on  fate,  I'll  leave  her 
here  alone.  He  waits  his  chance,  that  viper  in  his 
cloth  of  b lack .  She  knows  he  lingers  on  the  hill.  She'  11 
call  him  in  if  I  but  stay  her  fears  of  my  disturbance. 
So  then,  I'll  watch  them,  and  let  him  but  touch  her 
hand — (touching  the  knife  in  his  girdle) — and  then 

ANDREA 

(Fearful  for  his  friend  and  for  himself.)  What 
would  you  do  ? 

MATTEO 

Is  death  too  good  that  you  could  ask  me  what  I'd 
do?     (He  claps  his  hands  for  Mario.) 


86  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ANDREA 

Matteo,  has  jealousy  made  you  mad?  If  you 
shall  kill  a  padre  of  their  Church,  no  hope  could  save 
you.  The  blade  with  which  you  strike  you  might  well 
turn  on  yourself. 

MATTEO 

Suppose  it  broke — that  blade.  (In  sudden  thought 
of  his  fear  of  death.)  It  might  not  now.  Yet  would 
you  have  me  with  no  entrails  of  a  man,  and  stand  in 
idleness  whiles  he  tore  out  the  heart  of  me  ? 

Enter  Mario. 

Mario,  fetch  me  your  mistress — here,  at  once. 

[Mario  bows  and  exits. 

[Matteo  heaps  all  the  things  he  has  taken  out 
of  the  chest,  closes  the  chest,  and  piles  them 
on  the  top. 

MATTEO 

These  things  have  been  my  touch  with  life — till 
now.  So  we  deceive  the  heart  that's  in  us,  Andrea, 
and  never  guess  the  lies  we  tell  it — till  it  breaks. 

[Mario  holds  aside  the  curtain  at  S.L.  for 
Gianella  as  she  enters. 

GIANELLA 

(As  the  curtain  falls  behind  her.)     You  sent  for  me. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  87 

MATTEO 

Here  is  Andrea  Michelotti,  whom  you  will  re- 
member— he  of  Napoli. 

ANDREA 

{Bowing  to  Gianella  as  she  bows.)  I  am  an  un- 
welcome guest,  Signora,  for  I  have  brought  evil  news. 

GIANELLA 

What  news? 

MATTEO 

The  persecution  has  begun  again.  All  that  we 
have,  even  our  lives,  are  threatened.  We  must  fly 
tonight. 

GIANELLA 

(Distressed.)     Tonight  ? 


MATTEO 

(As  they  both  watch  her.)     Why  not  tonight? 


GIANELLA 

Do  you  leave  all  you  have  behind  you? 

MATTEO 

I  do  leave  nothing  that  is  mine. 

GIANELLA 

Yet   what   time   is   there,    Matteo?    Look — the 
evening's  falling  now. 


88  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEO 

Necessity  will  make  time. 

ANDREA 

And  sure  necessity  it  is.  Three  Jews  were  killed 
in  Messina  yesterday,  Signora. 

GIANELLA 

It  was  all  quiet  in  Palermo.  Yesterday  is  not 
today. 

MATTEO 

It  may  be  tomorrow.  Tomorrow  all  Sicily  will  be 
crying  for  our  blood,  and  as  it  was  in  their  Crusades 
when  they  waged  war  upon  the  Saracens,  so  now. 
They'll  fill  their  coffers  with  our  little  all. 

GIANELLA 

But — but  I  must  tend  the  grave  before  I  go — the 
grave  where  he  lies  buried,  and  I  must 

MATTEO 

And  you  must  do  of  countless  things  that  all  con- 
trive to  bid  you  say  we  cannot  go  tonight  ? 

GIANELLA 

Matteo,  have  patience  with  me.  This  news  is 
sudden  as  'tis  ill.     I  am  all  unprepared  to  hear  it. 

MATTEO 

So  be  it.  We  do  not  go  tonight;  but  I  will  see 
about  my  business  now  and  make  all  ready  to  set  sail 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  89 

tomorrow.  Andrea  here  will  come  with  us  and  he 
shall  help — (He  stops  as  Pietro  Morelli  appears  on 
the  loggia)— Ah !  here  is  our  friend,  the  padre.  Enter — 
enter,  friend.    Perhaps  you  come  to  hear  our  news. 

PIETRO 

(Coming  down  S.)     What  news? 

MATTEO 

Andrea  Michelotti  here  has  come  post-haste  from 
Messina  to  bring  it  us. 

PIETRO 

What  news,  sir? 

ANDREA 

They  say  the  Emperor  does  need  money  for  his 
chests  of  war. 

PIETRO 

(Smiling.)     Well?     That  is  an  old  tale. 


MATTEO 

Old  as  the  Sistine  Hills !  But  where  in  need,  think 
you,  he'll  seek  it?  When  gold  is  needed  for  the  arms 
of  Christ,  where  does  it  come  from,  padre?  Can  you 
say? 

PIETRO 

How  should  I  say?    How  do  I  know? 


90  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEO 

I'll  tell  you  then.  There  comes  a  whisper  like  a 
cry  far  out  at  sea  which  all  the  winds  of  heaven  gather 
slowly  in  their  arms  until  they  shout  it  out  in  thunder 
'cross  the  breadth  of  Europe — "From  the  Jews!" 
And  straightway  all  the  mighty  engines  of  your  faith 
all  set  at  work  to  crush  us  to  the  dust.  So  has  it  been 
for  thirteen  hundred  years. 

PIETRO 

Since  that  one  evil  day  when  they  did  nail  Christ 
to  the  cross. 

MATTEO 

And — spat  on  Him.  {Pause.)  Gianella,  the  pa- 
dre is  our  guest.  Attend  on  him  whilst  I  and  Andrea 
here  go  and  make  ready.  Let  us  not  be  disturbed. 
Light  you  the  lantern  for  the  padre,  should  he  need  it, 
when  he  goes. 

[Andrea  bows  and  goes  towards  the  curtain 
S.L.  Matteo  bows,  Pietro  does  like- 
wise. Matteo  goes  to  curtain,  holding  it 
aside  for  Andrea  who  goes  out.  Matteo 
follows  him. 

GIANELLA 

(Standing  a  moment  watching  Pietro,  then,  as  he 
takes  a  step  towards  her,  about  to  speak.)  Wait.  I  did 
not  like  the  temper  of  his  voice.  (She  goes  to  curtain, 
cautiously  pulling  it  aside  and  looking  through  the  open- 
ing, then,  satisfied,  returning  to  Pietro.)  He  has  gone. 
Now  tell  me — what  news? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  91 

PIETRO 

I  bring  a  message  from  the  convent  on  the  hill. 

GIANELLA 

You  have  spoken  with  the  Abbess? 

PIETRO 

This  day  I  spoke  with  her. 

GIANELLA 

What  has  she  said? 

PIETRO 

She  will  accept  you  this  very  night,  and  on  the 
morrow  the  Bishop  of  Palermo  will  there  attend  to 
receive  you  into  Holy  Mother  Church. 

[As  he  finishes  speaking,  Matteo  appears  on 
the  loggia.  He  creeps  cautiously,  seeking 
shelter  behind  one  of  the  pillars,  where  he 
watches  them. 

GIANELLA 

Then  so  it  comes  at  last,  and  all  my  prayers  are 
answered.  Yet  now  that  my  soul  is  sated  full  with 
joy,  my  heart  beats  sadly  for  him  I  must  leave  behind. 

PIETRO 

With  your  example  set  before  his  eyes,  might  he 
not  too  embrace  the  faith? 


92  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

GIANELLA 

Never !     No  torture  is  devised  that  could  wring  out 
a  Christian  oath  from  him. 


PIETRO 

Would  you  rather  that  I  left  you  so  ?     The  Church 
invites  but  not  compels. 


GIANELLA 

It  does  compel  me,  Father,  in  my  soul.  I  know 
that  there  alone  is  peace  for  me.  And  yet  he  loves  me 
in  some  wild  jealous  way,  as  he  would  love  the  thing 
he  calls  his  own. 

[The  evening  is  falling  fast  now,  and  the  light 
is  dying  in  the  sky.  The  figure  of  Matteo 
can  but  dimly  be  seen  behind  the  pillar 
of  the  loggia. 

PIETRO 

{Coming  to  Gianella.)  Signora,  Christ  calls  those 
who  will  hear  His  voice.  Maybe  the  time  will  come 
when  He  will  call  your  husband  too.  This  is  your 
parting  of  the  ways.  He  is  not  jealous,  but  you  cannot 
keep  your  all  and  follow  Him.  Search  closely  in  your 
heart  before  you  take  this  way.  He  does  not  ask  a 
greater  love  than  they  can  give  who  find  it  in  their 
souls  to  come  to  Him.  But  love  is  love  and  gives  with 
both  its  hands,  nor  hides  nor  cheats  itself  to  hold  aught 
back. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  93 

GIANELLA 

Then  that  is  how  I  love,  Father,  and  that  is  how 
I  come  to  Him,  with  both  hands  open — (she  holds  them 
out) — and  with  both  hands  full 

PIETRO 

(Taking  her  hands  in  his.)  I  knew  it  must  be  so. 
Christ  never  calls  in  vain. 

[He  stops,  letting  fall  her  hands,  as  Matteo 
strides  into  the  room  from  the  loggia.  His 
knife  is  in  his  hand  as  he  comes  to  Pietro 
with  clear  determination  in  his  eyes  to 
kill. 

MATTEO 

This  moment  is  your  last,  padre !  If  prayers  are 
on  your  tongue  then  say  them  quick. 

GIANELLA 

(Coming  swiftly  to  him  and  holding  his  arm.) 
Matteo!     Matteo!    What  would  you  do ? 

MATTEO 

I  could  not  hear  how  he  did  speak  his  love,  but 
all  do  speak  the  same.  Your  hands  were  held  in  his 
that  would  not  touch  a  Christian  so  if  love  were  not 
the  cause  of  it.  Take  off  your  hand!  (He  pushes 
her  aside.)     I'll  wait  one  moment  for  his  prayers. 

GIANELLA 

Matteo!  This  is  not  true.  He  takes  me  for  the 
Church,  not  for  himself. 


94  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEO 

(Dropping  his  hand  that  holds  the  knife.)  What's 
that  you  say  ? 

GIANELLA 

Tonight  the  Abbess  admits  me  to  the  Convent 
of  Santa  Maria  di  Latinis. 

MATTEO 

This  is  not  true !     'Tis  all  a  lie  to  blind  me. 

GIANELLA 

It  is  true,  Matteo.  The  light  of  God  has  fallen 
on  my  soul. 

MATTEO 

(Standing  away  from  her  in  horror,  then  looking 
at  Pietro.)     This  is  the  viper  that  has  stung  you! 

GIANELLA 

There  is  no  poison  in  my  mind  but  the  clear  light 
of  God. 

MATTEO 

(Approaching  Pietro.)  Today  I  thought  you 
were  her  lover,  setting  your  snare  to  steal  her  body 
from  my  arms;  but  thus  to  steal  her  soul — that  is  a 
theft  more  damnable  than  all. 

PIETRO 

I  have  stolen  nothing.  Her  soul  is  still  her  own 
and  never  has  been  in  another's  keeping. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  95 

MATTEO 

Her  soul ,  you  say.  How  have  you  done  this  thing  ? 
{He  takes  his  arm  and  turns  him  round  to  see  his  face.) 
What  magic  have  you  used?  {He  looks  into  his  eyes.) 
No!  There's  no  such  light  in  yours.  What  is  this 
trick  you  Christians  play? 

PIETRO 

No  trick,  Matteo.  Her  wandering  spirit  in  her 
grief  has  found  her  Christ. 

MATTEO 

Found  Christ !    The  Nazarene ! 

GIANELLA 

Deep  in  my  heart,  Matteo,  He  has  come  to  me. 

MATTEO 

{Hiding  his  face  in  his  hands.)  The  Nazarene! 
What  is  His  purpose  thus  with  me  to  ever  turn  the 
joys  of  life  to  ashes  on  my  tongue?  {Turning  to 
Pietro  with  a  depth  of  pain  in  his  voice.)  Leave  us. 
If  she  must  bid  farewell  to  me,  then  let  us  be  alone. 

GIANELLA 

{To  Pietro.)  Wait  for  me  there  upon  the  hill  and 
I  will  join  you  soon. 

[Pietro  bows  his  head  and  exits. 

MATTEO 

{Standing  a  moment  staring  at  her,  then  crossing  to 
her.)     This  is  not  true ! 


96  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

GIANELLA 

It  is.  (She  points  towards  the  convent.)  My  only 
peace  of  mind  is  there. 

MATTEO 

If  in  the  name  of  love  I  prayed  you  stay,  would 
you  not  stay  with  me? 

GIANELLA 

It  would  not  be  for  love,  Matteo,  if  you  prayed  me 
that.  The  love  that  burns  in  you  is  only  jealous  to 
possess. 

MATTEO 

Where  else  is  it,  if  not  in  love,  a  man  can  claim  his 
own? 

GIANELLA 

Love  gives,  Matteo,  not  demands.  Could  you  but 
give  you  might  then  gain. 

MATTEO 

(Putting  his  arms  abotit  her  and  holding  her  to  him. 
Behind  her  back  it  can  be  seen  he  has  his  knife  ready 
in  his  hand  to  press  into  her  vitals.)  Yet  if  I  hold  you 
thus  and  for  the  love  you  were  content  to  once  call 
love,  should  swear  I  would  not  let  you  go,  what  would 
you  do? 

GIANELLA 

Would  not  your  arms  grow  tired  in  time?  To 
gain  and  keep  the  thing  you  need,  and  so  believe  it  is 
your  touch  with  life — that  is  the  end. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  97 

MATTEO 

(Holding  her  more  closely  to  him  as  though  there  were 
a  terror  in  his  heart  to  lose  her.)  But,  Gianella,  you 
have  meant  so  much  to  me.  If  I  should  lose  you, 
now  our  boy  is  gone,  the  very  world  were  emptied 
like  a  pitcher  at  my  feet,  and  I  must  bear  the  drought 
of  life  alone. 

GIANELLA 

Matteo,  we  belong  not  to  each  other,  but  to  God. 
I  do  not  go  because  I  would,  I  go  because  I  must. 

MATTEO 

(Passionately.)  Yet  here's  our  life  together  now. 
As  long  as  breath  is  in  you,  you  belong  to  me.  The 
dust  is  God's.  Let  Him  take  that  when  He  has  made 
it  His. 

GIANELLA 

What  is  this  life  but  dust?  Dust  rising  into  shape 
beneath  the  breath  of  God,  and  sinking  into  dust  again 
as  it  comes  to  its  end? 

MATTEO 

But  if  I  held  you  thus  until  the  end,  and  if  that 
end  were  near? 

GIANELLA 

What  end? 

MATTEO 

(Preparing  to  press  home  his  knife.)     Death! 
7 


98  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

GIANELLA 

If  you  would  kill  me,  then  I  still  should  be  with 
Christ. 

MATTEO 

(His  arms  falling  limply  from  about  her.)     Have 
you  no  fear  of  death  ? 

GIANELLA 

Not  now  that  He  has  come  to  me. 


MATTEO 

(Standing  away  from  her.)  Take  up  your  lantern 
then  and  go.  (He  bows  his  head  to  the  inevitable.) 
I  am  not  he  who  dares  to  deal  with  death. 

[Gianella  slowly  moves  towards  the  loggia, 
where  she  picks  up  the  lantern  and  with  a 
tinder  lights  it,  then  crosses  the  loggia  into 
the  fallen  darkness.  The  light  of  her 
lantern  can  be  seen  swinging  in  her  hand 
as  she  moves  across  the  hill  in  the  darkness. 
Matteo  stands  there  watching  it  almost  as 
though  he  were  drawn  to  follow.  Andrea 
at  this  moment  enters  through  the  curtain 
down  S.L.  Coming  to  Matteo' s  side, 
he  stands  watching  him. 


ANDREA 

What  light  is  that? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  99 

MATTEO 

(In  a  hollow  voice.)     That  is  the  light  by  which 
some  tread  their  way  to  Christ. 

[As  he  takes  half  a  step  forward,  Andrea  lays 
his  hand  on  his  shoulder,  detaining  him. 
He  stops  but  does  not  turn,  standing  there 
and  watching  the  light  as  it  goes  away  in 
the  distance. 

SLOW  CURTAIN 


PHASE   IV 


101 


CHARACTERS 


Matteos  Battadios 
Juan  de  Texeda 
Gonzalez  Ferera 
Alonzo  Castro 
Lazzaro  Zapportas 
Arnaldo  Zapportas 
Al  Kazar 
Maria  Zapportas 
Olalla  Quintana 


The  Wandering  Jew. 

Inquisitor-General. 

The  Fiscal. 

The  Confessor. 

A  Jew  Merchant. 

His  Son. 

A  Moorish  Servant. 

The  Merchant's  Wife. 

A  Harlot. 


Usher,  Bellman's  Crier,  Councillors  of  the  Inquisition, 

Soldiers,  Men  and  Women  of  Seville,  a 

Messenger. 


103 


SCENE  I 
period,  i560  a.d. 

Scene 

This  is  a  room  in  Matteos  Battadios'  house  in 
Seville.  There  is  an  entrance  up  S.C.  into  the  street. 
Another  entrance  covered  by  a  curtain  S.L. 

{As  curtain  rises,  Al  Kazar,  the  Moorish  servant, 
is  speaking  to  a  messenger,  a  native  of  Seville,  dressed 
in  the  costume  of  a  poor  man  of  the  period.) 

AL   KAZAR 

Since  she  is  not  in  her  house  and  they  know  nought 
of  where  she  is,  my  master  bids  you  seek  the  Church 
of  San  Stefanos.  If  she  is  not  there  upon  her  knees 
ask  of  the  confessor  if  he  has  tended  to  Olalla  Quintana 
this  morn.  Go  with  all  speed  and  come  not  back  again 
till  you  bring  news  of  her. 

[The  servant  takes  the  messenger  to  the  door 
and  shows  him  out.  Then,  having  closed  it 
and  as  he  comes  back  to  exit  at  S.L.,  a 
knocking  falls  on  the  street  door.  Imper- 
turbably  he  turns  back  and  goes  back  to  door 
up  S.C. 

ZAPPORTAS 

{Appearing  with  his  wife  and  child  in  the  street  as 
the  door  is  opened.)  Is  this  the  house  of  the  doctor, 
Battadios? 

105 


106  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

SERVANT 
It  is. 

SERVANT 

(Admitting  Zapportas  and  his  wife  and  child.) 
Enter. 

ZAPPORTAS 

Can  I  have  speech  with  him? 

SERVANT 

My  master  will  attend  you  here. 

[Exit  Servant  S.L. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Looking  about  him  at  the  magnificence  of  the  room 
in  which  he  finds  himself.)  Sick  bodies  serve  these 
doctors  well.  This  Battadios  will  dip  deep  his  hand 
in  my  purse  ere  he  heals  the  boy. 

MARIA 

He's  the  most  learned  doctor  in  Seville.  Tney  say 
there  is  no  man  so  wise  or  good.  I  heard  but  yesterday 
there  is  one  Olalla  Quintana,  a  harlot,  and  he  has  saved 
her  from  disgrace  and  brought  her  to  her  faith  again. 
Of  such  deeds  to  what  better  man  could  we  have  come? 

ZAPPORTAS 

Deeds  are  not  skill.  A  doctor  in  our  quarter  would 
have  done  as  well.  (He  looks  about  the  room,  moving 
here  and  there,  and  examining  various  things  as  he 
speaks.) 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  107 

MARIA 

(With  spirit  rising — her  voice  with  it.)  Lazarro 
you  do  mingle  usury  with  love. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Apprehensively.)  Keep  your  lips  closed  upon  that 
word.  If  he  should  hear  my  practice  was  of  usury, 
he  then  would  know  that  we  were  Jews.  Have  I  not 
told  you  oft  enough  it  better  were  to  be  a  dog  and 
prove  the  gutters  of  Seville  than  with  their  Inquisition 
spies  abroad  to  be  as  one  of  us? 

MARIA 

What  sin  is  it  to  be  a  Jew  ? 

ZAPPORTAS 

They'll  find  the  sin  with  speed  enough  if  there  be 
money  there  to  pay  its  penance.  The  resources  of  the 
Inquisition  will  not  fail  by  that.  They  say  by  usury — 
when  'tis  by  thrift — we  suck  the  people's  wealth  into 
our  purses.  They  make  it  known  we've  brought  the 
leprosy  to  Spain. 

MARIA 

(With  a  note  of  fear.)     The  leprosy. 

ZAPPORTAS 

They  say  it  is  a  plague  peculiar  to  our  people  and  is 
spread  by  them. 

MARIA 

That  is  a  lie. 


108  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ZAPPORTAS 

It  serves  as  well  as  truth. 

MARIA 

Can  this  be  Christianity  ? 

ZAPPORTAS 

One  Christian  only  has  there  been.  Tis  He  that 
was  a  Jew.  {He  has  been  walking  round  the  room  ex- 
amining various  things,  looking  at  them  and  appraising 
them  greedily  with  his  eyes  as  he  talks.  Coming  to  a 
dagger,  he  picks  it  up  carefully.)  Here  is  a  treasure 
that  a  thousand  years  and  more  have  kept  for  him  to 
buy.  The  blade  is  broken  in  two  pieces  that  are  held 
together,  but  the  hilt  is  sound.  I'd  pay  five  hundred 
crowns  for  this  and  make  my  price  on  it  in  any  market 
you  might  name. 

[Matteos  Battadios  pulls  aside  the  curtains 
and  is  seen  at  S.L. 

BATTADIOS 

You  wished  to  see  me.  {Indicating  the  dagger  as 
Zapportas  in  confusion  puts  it  down.)  Is  it  about 
that? 

ZAPPORTAS 

{Confused.)  Sir,  I  was  but  speaking  of  the  beauty 
of  its  workmanship  and  age. 

MATTEOS 

{Crossing  to  him,  taking  it  up  in  his  hand  and  looking 
at  it  with  a  long  glance,  then  at  Zapportas.)  You  can 
appreciate? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  109 

ZAPPORTAS 

The  value  ?     It  is  worth  at  least  two  hundred  and 
fifty  crowns. 

MATTEOS 

(Looking  at  him  straightly  and  comprehensively.) 
Would  you  purchase  it  for  that  ? 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Eagerly.)     I  would. 

MATTEOS 

You  would  do  well  at  such  a  price.     (He  puts  it  back 
in  its  place.)     But  it  is  not  for  sale. 

ZAPPORTAS 

From  what  place,  sir,  did  it  come? 

MATTEOS 

I  found  it  in  a  house  in  Jerusalem. 

ZAPPORTAS 

In  Jerusalem !    The  hilt  has  seen  six  hundred  years 
and  more. 

MATTEOS 

You  reckon  well,  and  wisely  say  "and  more."  But 
if  not  this,  then  what  is  it  you  wish  of  me? 

MARIA 

Our  son 


no  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ZAPPORTAS 

The  boy  is  sick.    He  talks  of  fever  in  his  eyes. 

MARIA 

And  yesterday  three  sores  broke  out  upon  his  skin. 

MATTEOS 

(A  pproaching  Arnaldo.  )    Have  you  felt  this  fever 
long? 

arnaldo 

For  some  three  days,  sir.  'Tis  like  two  irons,  all  red 
hot,  that  press  against  my  eyes. 

MATTEOS 

(Pulling  aside  curtain  S.L.)    Come  this  way.    (As 
he  passes  out.)     I  will  be  with  you  now. 

[Exit  Arnaldo. 
(To  Zapportas.)    Where  do  you  come  from? 

ZAPPORTAS 

I  am  of  this  city. 

MATTEOS 

Was  this  your  place  of  birth? 

ZAPPORTAS 

No — no.     I  am  of  Catalonia. 

MATTEOS 

And  that  boy  ? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  III 

MARIA 

He  was  born  in  Seville. 

MATTEOS 

What  age  is  he  ? 

MARIA 

Thirteen  years. 

MATTEOS 

(To  Zapportas.)     What  trade  have  you  here  in 
Seville? 

ZAPPORTAS 

I  am  a  merchant,  sir,  an  honourable  trade. 

MATTEOS 

They  say  it  is  not  oft  a  Jew  does  trade  with  honour. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(In  fear.)    Sir !  I  am  not  a  Jew !    I  am  a  Spaniard 
and  a  good  Christian. 

MATTEOS 

Seville  has  twenty  Jews  to  one  good  Christian. 

ZAPPORTAS 

'Tis  not  for  me  to  say  that  I  am  good.     But  I  will 
swear  I  am  a  Spaniard  and  a  Christian  too. 


112  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEOS 

'Twere  better  keep  your  oaths  for  nobler  purpose. 
{He  moves  to  curtain  S.L.)  Presently  I  will  return  and 
give  you  my  report. 

[Exit  Matteos  S.L. 

ZAPPORTAS 

{In  fear.)  What  did  he  mean?  For  nobler  pur- 
pose?   Why  should  he  not  believe  my  oath? 

MARIA 

'Twere  hard  to  ring  the  note  of  truth,  Lazarro,  in 
such  an  oath  as  that. 

ZAPPORTAS 

And  yet  I  spoke  it  firm  enough.  Maria!  If  he 
should  be  a  spy ! 

MARIA 

This  cannot  be.  They  say  his  kindness  to  the  poor 
is  past  belief.  Two  years  ago,  when  all  Seville  was 
smitten  with  the  plague,  himself  went  out  to  every 
house,  holding  his  life  there  in  his  hands,  a  sacrifice 
for  rich  and  poor  alike.  How  could  a  nature  such  as 
that  descend  to  spying  work? 

ZAPPORTAS 

I  hear  him  come.     His  money's  quickly  earned. 

MARIA 

So  soon.  Then  surely  all  is  well.  I  have  been 
nursing  but  a  mother's  fears. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  113 

Enter  Matteos  S.L.     He  is  alone. 

MARIA 

{Eagerly.)     What  is  it,  sir? 

MATTEOS 

Tis  what  I  did  suspect.  You  both  will  need  be 
stout  of  heart. 

MARIA 

{In  fear.)     What  is  it,  sir? 

MATTEOS 

{looking  steadily  at  them.)     The  leprosy. 

ZAPPORTAS 

God  of  Abraham! 

MATTEOS 

'Tis  ever  in  the  hour  of  need  men  claim  the  God 

they  know.     (Maria   breaks  down,   crying  bitterly.) 

Why  had  you  shame  to  say  you  were  a  Jew  ?     {Laying 

his  hand  on  Maria's  shoulder.)     Go  to  your  son.     {He 

leads  her,  weeping,  towards  curtain  S.L.  and  shows  her 

out.)     Courage,  not  hope,  will  help  you  now.     If  it 

should  fail  you,  come  to  me. 

[Exit  Maria. 

ZAPPORTAS 

{As  Matteos  approaches  him,  grasping  and  clinging 
to  his  hand  in  an  agony  of  fear.)  Have  pity,  sir!  It 
was  not  shame,  but  these  are  evil  days  in  which  to  be 
a  Jew.  {His  terror  becomes  pitiable.)  God's  blessing 
if  you  will  have  pity,  sir! 

6 


114  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEOS 

My  friend,  so  many  times  I've  seen  the  terror  that 
you  feel.  You  have  a  little  fortune  saved,  I  know. 
That  honest  trade  has  served  you  well  and  now  you 
fear  to  lose  it  all.     It  is  your  touch  with  life. 

ZAPPORTAS 

Tis  but  enough,  sir,  for  my  needs. 

MATTEOS 

I  know,  I  know.  That  cheats  the  ears  of  men, 
Zapportas.  It  does  not  cheat  the  ears  of  God.  He 
knows  too  well  your  dearest  need. 

ZAPPORTAS 

My  dearest  need? 

MATTEOS 

To  hold  what  you  have  got,  and  to  that  end  you'd 
swear  you  are  a  Christian  and  no  Jew.  As  time  goes 
on — even  in  your  short  years  of  life — you'll  come  to 
know  it  better  were  to  spend  than  keep,  and  better 
than  them  all — to  give  away. 

ZAPPORTAS 

But,  sir,  if  these  Inquisitors  do  come  to  know,  then 
I  must  give  my  life ! 

MATTEOS 

Fortunate  man,  fortunate  man !  By  such  means 
only  can  you  gain  it.    You  cry  for  pity  and  beg  me 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  115 

save  you,  but  there's  such  terror  in  your  heart,  my 
word  alone  could  bring  your  conscience  little  ease. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Shaking  with  fear.)  If  you  would  give  your  oath, 
I  would  believe. 

MATTEOS 

Oaths  are  but  sentiments  of  faith.  Yet  if  you  need 
assurance,  would  I  betray  my  own  ? 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Amazed.)     You  are  a  Jew? 

MATTEOS 

'Twas  that  I  said. 

ZAPPORTAS 

But  all  do  think  you  are  a  Christian  in  Seville. 

MATTEOS 

All  men  are  Christians — all  are  Jews.  The  avowal 
of  his  faith  does  only  mask  a  man.  It  does  not  make 
him  what  he  is.  Get  you  from  the  city  now  as  quickly 
as  you  may.     I'll  send  your  wife  and  son  to  you. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Turning  at  door  suspiciously.)  How  do  I  know 
you  will  keep  faith  with  me? 

MATTEOS 

Look  in  your  own  heart.     You  will  find  it  there. 


n6  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ZAPPORTAS 

(As  he  goes.)  I  find  no  trust  of  any  man  when  I 
look  in  my  heart.  (As  he  turns.)  My  life  is  in  your 
hands,  sir,  and  'tis  dear  to  me. 

[Zapportas  tries  to  look  him  in  the  face,  then, 
lowering  his  head,  he  goes.  Exit  Zap- 
portas. 

[Matteos  watches  him  go,  then  moves  across 
to  where  the  dagger  is  lying  and  picks  it 
up,  reminiscently  looking  at  it  as  it  lies 
in  his  hand.  He  does  not  look  round  as 
a  knock  falls  imperatively  on  the  door.  A 
moment  later  the  Moorish  servant  enters, 
goes  to  the  door  and  opens  it,  when  Olalla 
is  seen  standing  in  the  street.  Her  voice 
and  manner  are  distracted. 

OLALLA 

(Out  of  breath.)     Your  master  in? 

MATTEOS 

(Putting  the  dagger  down  and  turning  at  once.) 
Olalla! 

[She  comes  in  swiftly,  crossing  at  once  to  him. 
They  stand  waiting  while  the  servant  exits 
S.L. 

MATTEOS 

Where  have  you  been ?    What  has  happened? 

OLALLA 

An  evil  thing  has  happened,  master.  This  morn, 
as  I  was  going  to  the  Church  of  San  Stef  anos,  two  men 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  117 

stepped  out  from  some  place  where  there  was  none 
about  and  bid  me  in  Texeda's  name  to  follow  them  and 
say  no  word. 

MATTEOS 

Texeda!    The  Inquisitor-General. 


OLALLA 

They  brought  me  before  him  in  the  council  cham- 
ber and,  from  a  paper,  these  words :  "  It  would  go  hard 
with  Christ  to  know  His  own,  if  He  should  come  again." 


MATTEOS 

My  words  to  you. 

OLALLA 

And  mine  to  some  poor  fool  who  spread  them  swift 
about.  They  asked  me  what  I  meant  by  them,  which, 
as  you  spoke  them,  meant  so  much  to  me  and,  as  I 
answered,  gave  such  poor  account.  It  seemed  they 
satisfied  themselves  the  words  were  not  the  texture  of 
my  mind,  for  when  they'd  plied  me  questions  one  upon 
another  fast,  they  let  me  go. 

MATTEOS 

(Smiling  at  her.)  The  fox  to  his  lair,  the  bird  to 
her  nest. 

OLALLA 

Master!    What  do  you  mean? 


n8  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEOS 

Had  you  so  fondly  thought  they'd  set  you  free? 
They  did  but  send  you  back  to  seek  the  hand  that  fed 
you. 

[She  stares  at  him  in  horror  for  a  moment,  then, 
hurrying  swiftly  to  the  window,  she  cau- 
tiously pulls  the  curtains  and  looks  out, 
dropping  the  curtains  suddenly  with  an 
exclamation  of  fear. 

OLALLA 

Two  men  stand  there  and  talk  together  in  the 
street !  'Tis  scarce  an  hour  I  saw  them  in  the  council 
chamber ! 

MATTEOS 

That  was  as  sure  as  any  beast  is  set  of  purpose  when 
he  drives  his  prey  to  earth. 

OLALLA 

Oh,  tell  me  what  to  do.  For  in  my  heart  I  am 
afraid. 

MATTEOS 

Afraid  of  what  ? 

OLALLA 

Their  tortures  and  their  hands  upon  my  neck. 

MATTEOS 

You  need  not  fear.  It  is  the  heart  that  spoke  those 
words  they  need.    The  lips  are  nought  to  them. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  119 

OLALLA 

(Looking  at  him  in  horror — then  suddenly  bend- 
ing down,  taking  his  hand  and  pressing  it  to  her  lips.) 
Master!  What  have  I  done?  God  could  not  rob 
me  thus! 

MATTEOS 

Of  what  could  you  be  robbed? 

OLALLA 

Of  love.  I  love  you  as  Mary  of  Magdalene  must 
have  loved  her  Christ. 

MATTEOS 

(Taking  his  hand  from  her  and  closing  his  eyes  in 
inner  contemplation.)     The  Nazarene. 

OLALLA 

'Tis  what  you  seem  to  me. 

MATTEOS 

Has  He  then  come  so  near  to  me  as  that?  Had 
you  but  seen  Him,  Olalla,  you  would  not  speak  such 
idle  words  as  these.  His  eyes,  His  voice,  alone  they 
would  have  stilled  your  fears.  He  would  have  made 
you  ready  to  take  hands  with  death.  'Tis  not  in  me 
to  do  such  thing  as  that.  (With  sudden  inspiration 
of  prescience.)  Yet  there  is  one  thing,  if  the  God  of 
Heaven  grants  it,  I  can  do. 

OLALLA 

What  shall  it  be? 


120  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEOS 

{Taking  her  hands.)  You  fear  to  die.  Then 
death's  not  yet  for  you.  It  has  been  long  for  me.  {He 
turns  towards  the  curtain  at  S.L.) 

OLALLA 

{Stretching  out  her  hand  in  frightened  apprehension 
and  detaining  him.)     What  do  you  mean  to  do? 

MATTEOS 

Call  my  servant  and  bid  him  bring  those  men 
within. 

OLALLA 

Master — it  might  mean  death ! 

MATTEOS 

Could  it  mean  more?  It  might  so  well  mean  less. 
Some  days  ago,  do  you  recall,  we  talked  of  death — the 
great  mysterious  journey  on  which  a  man  sets  forth 
from  this  ill-kept  and  troubled  harbour  of  his  life. 

OLALLA 

I  do  recall  it,  every  word. 

MATTEOS 

So  then  would  I  set  forth.  This  life  has  harboured 
me  too  long,  and  all  my  soul  is  aching  with  the  chains 
that  bind  me.  But  now  upon  my  ears  this  sounds  as 
though  it  were  a  summons  to  the  open  sea.  You  come 
to  me  and  bring  me  love.    You've  brought  me  more 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  121 

than  that.  Here,  for  some  honest  cause,  to  save  you 
from  the  pains  of  death,  I  can  submit  my  life,  if  'tis 
acceptable,  to  God. 

OLALLA 

Your  life?  But  what  is  mine  to  yours  ?  But  three 
months  gone  I  was  a  harlot,  spurned  by  everyone.  My 
soul  is  not  yet  cleansed  of  it. 

MATTEOS 

Must  you  not  live  then  till  it  is  made  clean  ? 

OLALLA 

But  they  have  set  me  free.  They  would  not  kill 
me  now,  and  yo a  would  rob  me  of  that  staff  on  which 
I  lean  towards  Christ.  Master!  Master!  Have  pity! 
I  cannot  walk  alone.  How  could  death  mean  so  much 
to  you  as  your  life  means  to  me  ? 

MATTEOS 

{Now  faced  with  the  supremest  sacrifice  in  his  life.) 
Ollala !  If  you  but  knew  what  memories  you  stirred ! 
Once  I  did  plead,  as  thus,  to  keep  one  by  my  side, 
because  I  feared  to  walk  alone;  but  she  was  called, 
and  I  was  left. 

OLALLA 

Surely  there's  none  could  call  you  from  me  now ! 
I  need  your  life  so  much ! 

MATTEOS 

(Bowing  his  head  in  the  anguish  of  his  struggle  with 
himself.)     Is  this  the  meaning  of  it  all — that  here, 


122  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

when  most  I  thought  I'd  found  the  end,  I  must  myself 
foregoit?  (Beating  his  hands.)  Indeed,  I  see  it  all  too 
clear.  Still  am  I  seeking  to  forget.  Still  am  I  setting 
up  myself  as  once  when  I  did  spit  on  that  I  knew  was 
truer  than  myself.  Here's  not  the  end!  I  must  go  on. 
I  must  go  on. 

[A  knock  falls  heavily  on  the  door.  They  both 
turn  and  stare  at  it. 

OLALLA 

Master!    Tis  they!    You  will  not  leave  me? 

MATTEOS 

( Touching  her  assuringly  with  his  hand. )     You  need 
not  fear. 

[Al  Kazar  enters  by  curtains  and  goes  to  door, 
opening  it,  when  Castro,  the  Confessor, 
and  Ferera,  the  Fiscal,  are  seen  outside. 
They  enter  without  question. 

FERERA 

Sir,  we  have  cause  to  ask  you  what  is  the  meaning 
of  this  woman  in  your  house? 

OLALLA 

(Quickly.)     I  have  been  ill  of  health  and  am  come 
here  for  his  attendance. 

FERERA 

When  we  have  need  to  question  you,  you  can  reply. 
I  wait  your  answer,  sir. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  123 

MATTEOS 

I  can  content  you  with  no  better  answer  than  you 
have  received. 

FERERA 

I  have  it  here  upon  the  authority  of  the  Holy 
Inquisition  to  bring  you  before  the  Council ,  where  such 
questions  will  be  put  to  you  as  must  enforce  reply. 

MATTEOS 

I  am  at  your  service. 

FERERA 

(Going  with  Castro  to  the  door.)     Then  follow  us. 

OLALLA 

(Beneath  her  breath.)  Master!  Master!  You  will 
not  let  me  be  alone? 

MATTEOS 

Still  have  you  fear  I  do  not  know  the  road  ?     I  do. 

[He  follows  them  out  into  the  street.     Olalla 
drags  her  footsteps  after  them. 

curtain 


124  THE  WANDERING  JEW 


SCENE   II 

Scene 

The  Tribunal  Chamber  of  the  Inquisition.  As  cur- 
tain rises  the  Councillors  are  seated  at  a  long  table,  with 
Juan  de  Texeda,  the  Inquisitor-General,  in  the  centre, 
and  at  the  back  of  his  chair,  Castro,  the  Confessor,  and 
Ferera,  the  Fiscal. 

TEXEDA 

{Studying  a  document  that  lies  on  the  table  before 
him,  then  picking  it  up  as  he  addresses  the  Councillors.) 
Brothers,  in  my  experience  there  has  been  for  long 
no  matter  of  such  deep  import  as  this.  The  woman  we 
saw  yesterday,  and  did  interrogate  upon  her  heresy, 
we  have  had  closely  watched.  We  did  believe  the 
words  she  uttered  in  substance  only  were  upon  her  lips. 
We  did  presume  the  spirit  of  their  blasphemy  had 
found  its  concept  in  some  shrewder  mind  than  hers. 
We  asked  ourselves  what  company  she  kept.  We  set 
her  free  to  learn  such  knowledge  for  ourselves,  well 
knowing  how  first  her  thoughts  would  be  to  seek  for 
confidence  the  mind  that  nurtured  her. 

FIRST   COUNCILLOR 

Where  was  she  found  ? 

TEXEDA 

In  the  house  of  Matteos  Battadios,  whose  name  is 
known  to  all  here  present,  and  to  the  very  walls  of  our 
Seville. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  125 

FIRST   COUNCILLOR 

Has  he  been  arrested  ? 

TEXEDA 

Yesterday,  without  delay.  He  waits  within  our 
prison,  and  this  Tribunal  must  now  decide  what  is  the 
proper  course  to  take.  I  say  this  matter  is  of  deep 
import,  because,  should  but  this  charge  be  proved 
against  him,  it  cannot  be  overlooked  he  is  a  man  well 
known  and  loved  of  many  in  Seville — by  poor  and  rich 
alike,  for  whom  he  oft  has  hazarded  his  life.  Brothers, 
this  is  no  ordinary  offender,  but  one  on  whom,  for  the 
honour  of  this  court,  a  judgment  must  be  strictly 
weighed. 

Yet  far  above  the  honour  of  this  court  stands  high 
the  honour  of  the  Church  of  Christ,  in  deep  contempt 
of  which,  if  it  be  proved  against  him,  this  man  has 
uttered  violent  words. 

FERERA 

He  may  explain  some  other  meaning  to  our  satis- 
faction. 

TEXEDA 

Yet  'tis  the  man  our  wisdom  has  most  need  to  dwell 
upon.  Our  issue  then  is  first  to  learn,  did  he  entrust 
such  words  to  her?     How  does  he  bear  himself? 

CASTRO 

Well. 

FIRST  COUNCILLOR 

What  has  he  said  since  he  was  brought  here? 


126  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

CASTRO 

I  have  tried  to  draw  him  into  speech,  but  he  will 
not  reply.  "I  will  await  my  judgment."  That  was  all 
he  said. 

FERERA 

I  had  one  set  to  watch  him  in  his  room  last  night. 

SECOND   COUNCILLOR 

Was  he  at  his  prayers? 

TEXEDA 

If  so,  they  were  within  the  silence  of  his  heart.  He 
did  not  fall  upon  his  knees,  but  sat  there  staring  at  the 
wall  as  though  he  waited  for  some  sign  to  show  itself. 

THIRD   COUNCILLOR 

Let  us  question  the  woman  Quintana  before  we 
have  him  here  before  us. 

TEXEDA 

It  were  as  well.     Let  her  be  brought. 

[The  Usher  summons  Olalla.  In  the  pause 
that  follows  in  these  proceedings,  Texeda 
consults  with  Ferera. 

Enter  Usher  with  Olalla. 

TEXEDA 

How  long  has  this  Battadios  been  a  doctor  in 
Seville? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  127 

FERERA 

Some  sixteen  or  seventeen  years. 

TEXEDA 

And  before  then?     From  whence  had  he  come? 

FERERA 

I  have  inquired  in  every  quarter.  There  is  none 
who  knows. 

Enter  a  soldier  bringing  Olalla. 

TEXEDA 

Young  woman,  did  you  think  so  easily  to  avoid 
the  vigilance  of  this  court  ?  So  let  me  warn  you  ere 
you  answer  what  we  ask.  Silence  will  not  avail  you, 
nor  a  lying  tongue.  What  is  the  power  this  Battadios 
has  on  you  that  he  can  turn  you  from  a  life  of  shame  ? 

OLALLA 

Such  power,  my  lord,  as  sometimes  it  would  seem 
to  me  the  Christ  did  have  on  Mary  Magdalene.  'Twas 
by  the  nobleness  of  all  he  taught  me  I  did  put  away 
my  shame.  You  cannot  twist  those  words  of  mine 
to  heresy  in  him  who  never  uttered  but  the  truest 
thoughts  a  man  has  breath  to  speak  with. 

TEXEDA 

Would  you  persuade  this  court  such  words,  intense 
with  heresy,  frothed  but  in  idleness  upon  your  lips? 


128  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

OLALLA 

I  do  so  swear  it. 

TEXEDA 

And  they  were  given  you  by  none? 

OLALLA 

By  none! 

[Texeda  turns  and  consults  in  an  undertone 
with  Ferera,  who  advises  him.  Texeda 
inclines  his  head  in  agreement. 

[Enter  a  soldier  of  the  Inquisition  who  speaks 
to  the  Usher,  who  crosses  to  Texeda. 

USHER 

Sir,  there  is  without  a  witness  who  has  such  evi- 
dence, he  says,  as  this  court  could  well  afford  to  hear. 

TEXEDA 

Which  means  he  needs  his  price.     What  is  his 
name? 

USHER 

Lazzaro  Zapportas,  a  merchant  of  this  city,  trading 
in  silk  stuffs  and  the  like. 


TEXEDA 

Let  him  come  here. 


[Exit  Usher. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  129 

TEXEDA 

(Having  consulted  again  with  Ferera.)  Take  this 
young  woman  away,  but  keep  her  close.  We  may 
have  need  of  her. 

[A  soldier  leads  Olalla  away  and  Lazzaro 
Zapportas  is  brought  in. 


ferera 
Lazzaro  Zapportas. 


ZAPPORTAS 

Sir. 

FERERA 

Of  your  free  will  you  have  come  here  to  give  the 
court  such  information  as  you  truly  do  possess  of  this 
Matteos  Battadios. 


ZAPPORTAS 

I  have  such  knowledge  of  the  man,  sir,  as  the 
Inquisition  could  afford  to  hear. 

TEXEDA 

If  his  informing  be  of  serious  import,  see  that  he 
is  rewarded  when  he  goes 

ZAPPORTAS 

{Bowing  gratefully.)     I  know  you  will  reward  me 
well  when  you  have  heard. 


130  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

FERERA 

How  long  has  Battadios  been  known  to  you? 

ZAPPORTAS 

Since  yesterday.     My  son  had  some  slight  sickness 
and  we  brought  him  to  the  house. 

TEXEDA 

What  knowledge  of  the  man  can  you  have  gained 
in  such  short  time  as  that  ? 

ZAPPORTAS 

Enough,  sir,  to  explain  this  charge  of  heresy  which 
has  been  raised  against  him. 

TEXEDA 

Come,  speak  it  then,  and  let  it  be  the  truth. 

ZAPPORTAS 

It  is  the  truth,  but  I  must  first  demand  he  be  not 
told  who  gave  this  knowledge  that  I  bring. 

FOURTH  COUNCILLOR 

Demand ! 

TEXEDA 

None  but  the  Emperor  can  demand.     This  court 
does  not  consent  to  bind  itself. 

ZAPPORTAS 

Then,  sirs,  my  lips  are  sealed. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  131 

TEXEDA 

Doubtless  you  think  so,  but  we  have  means  here 
to  unloose  them.  Take  him  to  the  torture.  He'll 
not  be  silent  long. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Consumed  with  fear.)  Not  torture,  sirs!  My  body 
is  too  weak.  If  I  should  die,  how  would  my  knowledge 
serve  you  then  ? 

TEXEDA 

We'll  look  well  to  your  health.  (To  the  soldiers.) 
Take  him  away. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(As  the  soldiers  take  him  away.)  Then  I  will  speak 
now,  for  I  could  not  bear  the  pain. 

TEXEDA 

Unless  you  speak  the  truth  it  will  not  serve  you. 

ZAPPORTAS 

As  God  hears  me  I  do  speak  the  truth.  Matteos 
Battadios  is  a  Jew. 

TEXEDA 

A  Jew! 

CASTRO 

You  have  such  knowledge  in  a  day  which  none  have 
known  since  he  came  to  Seville? 


132  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ZAPPORTAS 

With  his  own  lips  he  told  me  so. 


FERERA 

If  this  be  true,  'tis  in  itself  a  very  proof  he  spoke 
the  words.  He  would  convert  this  foolish  woman 
to  his  faith.  Here  is  enough  to  send  him  to  the  stake 
and  not  incur  the  anger  of  the  people. 

TEXEDA 

Let  him  be  brought  here  now,  and  keep  this  man 
at  hand.  If  need  be,  we  will  bring  them  face  to  face. 
Take  him  away  and  bring  this  Battadios. 

[One  soldier  exits — the  other  takes  Zapportas 
by  the  arm. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(As  he  is  being  led  away.)  And  the  reward  you 
promised,  sir. 

TEXEDA 

Have  no  fear  of  that.  When  it  is  earned  your 
payment  shall  be  fully  made. 

ZAPPORTAS 

I  do  not  wish  him  ill,  but  thought  such  knowledge 
might  well  serve  the  court.  I  have  said  all  I  know. 
I've  nothing  to  declare  against  the  man.  Can  I  not 
take  my  payment  now  and  go? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  133 

CASTRO 

(To  Texeda.)     There  is  a  fear  behind  his  heart,  if 
he  possesses  one,  to  meet  this  doctor  face  to  face. 


TEXEDA 

(To  Zapportas.)     What  is  your  haste? 

ZAPPORTAS 

I  would  be  gone  about  my  business,  sir. 


TEXEDA 

Take  him  away;   I  have  no  patience  with   his 
eagerness. 

[Exit  soldier  roughly  with  Zapportas. 


FERERA 

If  this  be  true  we  have  an  easier  matter  now  to 
judge. 

FIRST   COUNCILLOR 

When  once  the  people  know  this  Battadios  is  a 
Jew,  justice,  even  if  it  be  the  stake,  will  not  offend 
them. 

TEXEDA 

Still  better  if  such  a  man,  so  well-beloved  in  all 
Seville,  would  take  the  faith  and  bring  great  honour 
to  the  Church. 


134  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

CASTRO 

(As  the  door  opens.)     Here  comes  he  now. 
Enter  Matteos  Battadios. 

TEXEDA 

(Watching  him.)  There's  something  fearless  in  the 
man.     He  bears  himself  with  courage. 

FERERA 

He  faces  but  the  instruments  of  death.  How  will 
his  spirit  muster  before  death  itself?  (As  Matteos 
stands  in  his  place.)     You  are  Matteos  Battadios? 

MATTEOS 

I  am. 

FERERA 

And  are  a  doctor  in  Seville? 

MATTEOS 

I  am. 

FERERA 

The  charge  against  you  is  of  heresy.  What  have 
you  to  say  ? 

MATTEOS 

I  have  no  word  to  say. 

TEXEDA 

Do  you  deny  all  authorship  of  these  vile  words 
which  on  her  own  admission  this  young  woman  has 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  135 

uttered  in  heresy  against  the  Church?  (He  pauses 
for  an  answer. )  ' '  'Twould  go  hard  with  Christ  to  know 
His  own  if  He  should  come  again  ? "  (Pause.)  I  would 
advise  you,  sir,  answer  the  court  if  justice  is  to  be  the 
measure  of  your  guilt. 

MATTEOS 

I  have  no  word  to  say. 

TEXEDA 

(Conferring  with  Ferera.)  We  can  do  nothing  if 
he  keep  this  silence  close  to  guard  him. 

FISCAL 

Send  for  the  little  man  and  so  confront  him  now. 
If  he's  no  Jew  he'll  speak  to  that.  Once  break  reserve 
and  then  we'll  trick  him  into  words. 

TEXEDA 

(To  Usher.)     Bring  in  the  witness  we  heard  last. 

[Exit  Usher. 

TEXEDA 

(To  Matteos.)  We  have  one  here  who  may  in- 
cline you,  sir,  to  loose  your  tongue,  and  instruments 
there  are  as  well  within  these  walls  that  have  been 
known  to  make  the  very  dumb  cry  out  with  unsus- 
pected speech.  I  warn  you  now,  these  measures  do 
you  harm. 

[Matteos  bows  his  head,  then  looks  up  as  the 
soldier  leads  in  Zapportas  again  to  his 
place. 


136  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEOS 

(Regarding  him  quietly.)    Is  this  your  witness? 

ZAPPORTAS 

(In  terror.)     Good  sirs,  I  pray  you  heed  not  what 
this  man  shall  say.     He  has  no  love  of  me. 

MATTEOS 

What  have  you  said,  Lazzaro? 

FERERA 

The  witness  has  declared  upon  his  oath  you  are 
by  blood  and  birth,  a  Jew. 

TEXEDA 

(After  a  pause.)     Is  that  the  truth? 

MATTEOS 

I  am  a  wandering  member  of  a  wandering  race. 

TEXEDA 

Answer  the  court !    Are  you  a  Jew  ? 

MATTEOS 

Do  you  mistrust  his  word  ? 

TEXEDA 

This  is  no  question  of  his  word,  but  yours.    Are 
you  a  Jew? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  137 

MATTEOS 


I  am. 


TEXEDA 

(.4  mazed. )     You  do  confess  it ! 

MATTEOS 

There  is  no  power  could  wring  denial  from  my  lips. 

TEXEDA 

But  what  if  it  mean — death  ? 

ZAPPORTAS 

Death! 

MATTEOS 

That  is  a  great  meaning,  sir. 

TEXEDA 

Yet  if  from  this  it  can  be  proved  you  taught  this 
heresy,  it  then  may  mean  no  less. 

MATTEOS 

You  know  as  well  as  I  it  can  prove  nothing  if  my 
deeds  are  not  a  menace  to  the  people  of  Seville. 

TEXEDA 

How  comes  it  then  you  have  concealed  the  fact  so 
long  and  now  divulge  it  to  the  witness  here? 


138  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

ZAPPORTAS 

Ask  not  that  question,  sir.  He  has  a  spite  against 
me  and  will  in  vengeance  wreak  it  if  he  can. 

MATTEOS 

Lazzaro,  I  have  no  vengeance  in  my  heart. 

ZAPPORTAS 

No  vengeance! 

MATTEOS 

'Tis  not  the  soul  of  every  man  is  greater  than  his 
moment  when  it  comes. 

TEXEDA 

Our  question  waits  an  answer,  sir.  (Matteos  does 
not  reply.)     Do  you  defy  authority? 

MATTEOS 

This  man  is  not  upon  his  trial.  There  is  no  heresy 
in  him.  He  has  but  spoken  what  he  thought  would  aid 
the  court. 

TEXEDA 

You  speak  as  it  were  generous,  sir,  but  here  is  one 
who  sells  his  information,  and  shall  give  his  proper 
weight. 

MATTEOS 

{Looking  without  anger  at  Lazzaro.)  It  was  not 
worth  a  price,  Lazzaro.  You  even  would  have  found 
more  ease  of  heart  if  you  had  given  it  away. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  139 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Trying  to  face  his  glance,  then  dropping  his  eyes  and 
turning  to  Texeda  with  a  note  of  bitter  self -recrimination 
in  his  voice.)  May  I  not  go  now  ?  I  have  no  more  to 
say. 

TEXEDA 

No  more?  (He  consults  with  Ferera.)  You  can 
but  say  that  this  man  is  a  Jew.  And  what's  your  price 
for  that? 

ZAPPORTAS 

(Bitterly.)     I  want  no  price.     I  care  not  what  I  get. 


FERERA 

(Smiling  shrewdly.)  This  merchant  is  the  first  that 
I  have  known  who  cared  not  for  his  price  because  his 
goods  were  soiled. 

ZAPPORTAS 

(His  deeper  conscience  crying  out  of  him  despite  him- 
self.) What  have  I  done?  I  did  but  speak  the  truth, 
and  yet  it  seems  within  my  heart  a  lie  had  been  of 
better  service  here.     What  have  I  done? 


MATTEOS 

You  have  but  been  a  servant  to  your  will,  and  in 
such  servitude  all  must  perform  the  menial  things  of 
fate.  You've  asked  your  price,  Lazzaro — take  it. 
You  one  day  may  be  master  of  your  soul. 


140  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

TEXEDA 

(To  the  Usher.)  We  waste  the  time  of  the  court. 
Dole  out  his  money  and  let  him  go. 

[The  Usher  beckons  bo  Zapportas  and  counts 
out  some  money  into  his  hand.  He  takes 
it  as  though  each  piece  were  burning  metal 
in  his  hand.  With  his  head  bowed  in 
shame  he  turns  to  the  door.  At  the  door 
he  looks  back,  as  though  he  knew  it  were  the 
last  time  he  would  see  him. 

[Exit  Zapportas. 

TEXEDA 

(To  Ferera.)  We  get  no  further.  What  if  he  is  a 
Jew  ?  As  he  has  said,  his  deeds  are  clear.  The  people 
would  not  suffer  him  to  die,  and  it  is  plain  to  me  the 
torture  will  not  break  the  iron  of  his  will. 


FERERA 

Send  for  the  girl.  I  have  a  torture  that  will  give 
him  pain.  We'll  make  him  wince  and  bend  the  iron 
till  it  snaps. 

{They  consult.) 

TEXEDA 

(To  the  Usher.)     Bring  in  the  young  woman  again. 

[While  the  Usher  is  gone,  Ferera  and  Castro 
consult  in  undertones  with  Texeda,  who 
listens  in  agreement  to  all  they  say,  evi- 
dently approving  of  their  advice. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  141 

Enter  Olalla  with  a  soldier.    As  she  sees  Matteos, 
her  eyes  turn  to  him  in  suffering. 

TEXEDA 

(As  she  stands  before  him.)  Closely  we  have  ques- 
tioned this  man  and  can  extract  no  answer  to  our 
charge.  It  was  no  more  than  supposition  of  the  court 
that  with  the  power  he  had  to  influence  you  these 
words  of  heresy  you  do  admit  had  come  in  thought  and 
being  from  his  mind.  We  cannot  prove  that  this  is  so, 
therefore  in  all  untainted  justice  we  shall  set  him  free. 

[Olalla  clasps  her  hands  in  the  emotion  of  her 
joy  and  gratitude.  Texeda  continues 
after  a  pause. 

But  thus  it  is  this  court  cannot  accept  your  plea  of 
idle  words  upon  a  thoughtless  tongue.  Too  deeply 
meant  this  heresy  appears  to  us,  and  so  our  sentence  is 
that  you  shall  die,  and  God  in  mercy  cleanse  your  soul 

of  it. 

[Olalla  sways  as  she  stands.     The  soldier 

supports  her. 

Olalla 
(Standing  a  moment  unsteadily,  staring  at  them, 
unable  to  realise  the  meaning  of  it.)  What  have  J  done? 
(With  sudden  realisation  of  the  sentence  she  stumbles  to 
the  table  at  which  the  Council  are  sitting  and,  kneeling 
down,  implores  Texeda  for  mercy.  Ferera  closely 
watches  Matteos.)  My  lord!  My  lord!  I  cannot 
die  I  I  am  not  clean  enough  to  die.  I  am  afraid  to  die. 
Oh,  let  me  live  a  little  longer  yet. 


142  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEOS 

Olalla. 

OLALLA 

Master!  I  cannot  hold  my  fear!  It  all  seems 
closing  black  around  me.  Their  hands  will  hurt.  I 
cannot  go  to  Death !  It  frightens  me.  (Her  voice  rises 
to  a  pitch  of  hysteria.)     Speak  for  me,  Master !    Speak ! 

FERERA 

(Sharply  questioning  her  and  pursuing  the  advantage 
of  her  fear.)  Why  do  you  cry  to  him  for  help?  How 
can  he  succour  you  ? 

OLALLA 

He  knows  my  heart  is  full  of  fear. 

FERERA 

How  would  that  help  you  now? 

OLALLA 

I  do  not  know. 

FERERA 

'Twere  better  that  you  did!  The  torture  will  not 
comfort  you  so  well  as  Death. 

OLALLA 

I  do  not  know! 

FERERA 

You  called  him  ''Master" !  What  is  it  makes  him 
that  to  you? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  143 

OLALLA 

He  has  been  that  and  more  to  me.  'Twas  he  that 
taught  me (She  stops,  seeing  how  her  fear  is  betray- 
ing her.) 

FERERA 

Go  on — go  on !    He  taught  you  what  ? 

OLALLA 

I  do  not  mean 

FERERA 

He  taught  you  what  ? 

OLALLA 

Oh  God!  What  shall  I  say!  You  do  increase  my 
fear! 

MATTEOS 

Hold  fast  your  heart,  Olalla.  He  cannot  touch  you 
there. 

FERERA 

Be  silent !  When  we  have  need  of  speech  from  you 
we'll  ask  of  it.  (He  turns  to  Olalla.)  The  court  has 
given  sentence.     Only  your  tongue  can  save  you. 

OLALLA 

(Her  voice  rising  to  hysteria.)  Speak  for  me, 
Master !    Speak ! 


144  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

FERERA 

Speak  what?    What  shall  he  speak ? 

OLALLA 

(Panting  in  her  fear.)     Oh,  do  not  ask  me  more.     I 
have  no  strength  to  say. 

FERERA 

What  shall  he  speak? 

OLALLA 

(Clinging  to  the  barrier.)     I — I  cannot  say.     I — I 
(She  drops  down.) 


FERERA 


If  you  would  ease  your  fear  of  death,  tell  now  the 
court  what  he  should  speak. 

OLALLA 

God's  mercy!    That  which  I  begged  him  keep  in 
silence. 

FERERA 

Now  tell  us  what  was  that? 

OLALLA 

(Almost  unconscious  of  what  she  is  saying.)    The 
words  were  not  first  mine. 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  145 

FERERA 

But  his!     (She  is  half sinking  into  a  faint.)    Answer 
me!    But  his? 

OLALLA 

Oh,  yes.     Oh (With  a  moan  she  falls  in  a  faint 

on  to  the  ground.) 

Bear  her  away  and  keep  close  charge  of  her. 

[Two  soldiers  lift  Olalla  up,  whose  moans  and 
weeping  can  be  heard  as  they  carry  her  out. 

[Exit  Olalla. 

TEXEDA 

Now,  sir,  do  you  deny  our  charge? 

MATTEOS 

There's  nothing  that  I  have  denied.    All  that  has 
passed  has  been  the  purpose  and  the  will  of  God. 


TEXEDA 

Yet  here  I  have  it  writ  you  do  admit  the  author- 
ship of  these  vile  words :  "  It  would  go  hard  with  Christ 
to  know  His  own  if  He  should  come  again."  Do  you 
deny  them  now  ? 

MATTEOS 

No. 

10 


146  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

TEXEDA 

This  then  is  heresy,  imputing  all  abomination  to 
the  Mother  Church.  Unless  you  can  explain  these 
words,  and  to  the  satisfaction  of  the  court,  of  heresy 
you  then  will  stand  accused. 

FERERA 

There  is  doubtless  some  simple  explanation  in  his 
mind. 

THIRD  COUNCILLOR 

Never  has  been  the  spirit  of  the  Church  so  high 
exalted  as  it  is  today. 

TEXEDA 

So  in  this  high  estate  to  which  the  Church  has 
come,  it  might  indeed  go  hard  with  Christ — (he  crosses 
himself) — to  recognise  His  own  from  what  they  were. 

MATTEOS 

If  I  had  need  of  loophole  for  escape  you  would 
deserve  my  thanks  for  that.  But  this  was  not  my 
meaning,  sir.  I've  watched  the  growth  of  Christianity 
from  the  seed  of  life  from  which  it  sprang,  and  as  each 
age  some  new  conceit  of  man  has  cunningly  been 
grafted  on  its  stem,  so  has  it  long  outgrown  all  likeness 
to  the  tree  it  was. 

FERERA 

Must  we  listen  to  the  arrogance  of  this  profanity? 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  147 

TEXEDA 

Let  him  speak  on.     (He  listens  intently.) 

MATTEOS 

Humbly  I  bid  you  ask  yourselves,  will  Christianity 
make  its  Christ,  or  in  the  end  will  Christ  make  all 
men  Christians? 

If  these  in  our  Seville,  or  you  in  high  authority, 
belong  to  Christ,  by  what  sign  should  He  know  you 
if  He  came  again?  By  your  pity?  God  defend  us, 
for  you  have  none !  By  your  humility  ?  I  am  not  He 
to  judge  you  for  your  pride.  By  your  mercy?  Dare 
you  forgive,  lest  they  you  pardon  should  be  given 
leave  to  find  you  out?  By  your  love?  Whom  have 
you  loved,  good  sirs,  unless  it  were  the  little  being  of 
yourselves? 

CASTRO 

This  is  reviling  on  the  Church  itself. 

TEXEDA 

Still  let  him  speak. 

MATTEOS 

And  yet  perchance  I  wrong  you  when  I  say  there 
is  no  sign  by  which  Christ  now  would  know  His  own. 
(He  points  to  the  crucifix  hanging  behind  them  above  their 
heads.)  There  is  the  sign  His  eyes  would  turn  to  with 
familiar  gaze.  That  you  have  kept !  His  Cross!  But 
in  its  polished  surfaces — its  gold  and  silver  and  its 
precious  stones — the  pain  He  bore  on  it  is  all  heaped 
out  with  pride. 


148  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

(Leaning  forward  and  pointing  with  his  finger  at  the 
crucifix.)  'Twas  not  a  cross  like  that  He  carried  up 
the  hill  to  Calvary.  Rough  beams  of  sycamine  it  was 
that  never  knew  the  temper  of  the  plane.  The  bark 
was  crusted  round  the  stem.  It  had  been  roughly 
hewn  the  day  before,  and  on  one  arm  whereon  they 
nailed  His  hand  a  little  twig  clung  to  the  mother  tree 
and  shook  its  leaves  in  laughing  life  as  His  limbs 
trembled  with  the  touch  of  death. 

That  was  the  only  jewel  on  His  cross,  and  they  who 
mocked  Him  then  with  words — who  mocked — (he 
bends  his  head) — and  spat  on  Him — was  that  such 
mockery  as  yours,  whose  hollow  worship  in  a  painted 
shrine  is  more  unreal  than  spittle  on  your  lips? 

TEXEDA 

(To  his  Councillors.)  This  is  the  vilest  blasphemy. 
(To  Matteos.)  Have  you  lost  all  regard,  that  here 
you  stand  before  the  highest  court,  and  for  such  words 
as  these  your  eyes  might  never  see  the  light  of  day 
again ! 

MATTEOS 

It  is  the  fault  of  all  in  this  short  life  to  dwell 
upon  the  consequences  ere  they  act.  So,  many  a  good 
deed  has  been  swallowed  up  in  contemplation.  I  have 
outgrown  timidity. 

FIRST  COUNCILLOR 

Outgrown ! 

THIRD   COUNCILLOR 

He's  watched  the  growth  of  Christianity! 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  149 

FOURTH   COUNCILLOR 

What  age  is  he? 

TEXEDA 

What  age  are  you ?     (Pause.)    Answer  the  court ! 

MATTEOS 

If  I  should  say  the  court  would  not  believe.  I 
do  assure  you,  sirs,  before  I  leave  this  place,  I  shall 
have  taxed  your  credulity  enough. 

TEXEDA 

A  moment  past  I  spoke  of  death  as  it  might  be  the 
sentence  of  the  Inquisition  on  your  heresy.  Yet  even 
here  the  court  is  merciful. 

MATTEOS 

What  must  I  give,  sir,  in  exchange  for  mercy  ? 

TEXEDA 

Embrace  here  now  the  faith  of  Holy  Mother 
Church,  and  on  the  morrow  in  the  market-place,  before 
all  people  there  assembled,  declare  you  were  a  Jew  on 
whom  the  light  of  this  our  Christian  faith  has  fallen. 

MATTEOS 

Think  you  that  that  will  bring  me  face  to  face  with 
Christ? 

CASTRO 

(Whispering.)    He  does  consider  it. 


150  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

TEXEDA 

It  does  bring  all  to  Christ. 

MATTEOS 

Not  words,  sir.  They  do  but  touch  the  tongue. 
What  in  default  of  this  ? 

TEXEDA 

In  that  same  market-place  you  shall  be  burnt  to 
death. 

MATTEOS 

Is  this — the  hour  of  death — the  only  threat  you  can 
hold  forth? 

TEXEDA 

It  is  enough  for  many  men  I  know.  Life  is  a  sweet 
thing,  Battadios. 

MATTEOS 

(Striking  his  breast.)  This  is  not  life,  good  sir,  this 
little  body  balanced  on  a  spinning  world.  'Tis  but  the 
glance  we  have  of  life,  which  is  eternal;  and  death, 
could  we  but  seize  of  it  like  men,  is  life's  most  glorious 
opportunity. 

You  do  not  know — how  can  you  tell,  who  in  your 
three-score  years  and  ten  come  like  a  moth  upon  a 
stream  of  light  and  eddy  in  the  sunshine  and  are  gone ! 
'Tis  this  existence  in  the  slanting  beam  that  seems  the 
sweetest  opportunity  to  you.  You  seize  and  hold  it 
with  your  clutching  hands,  afraid  to  let  it  go,  afraid 
to  pass  into  the  darkness  that  lies  there  beyond.     For 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  151 

all  your  talk  of  life  eternal  in  the  Kingdom  of  your 
God,  'tis  this  brief  span  of  years  alone  your  heart  has 
certain  knowledge  of.  This  is  the  hour  you  cherish 
when  in  your  sense  of  hearing,  touch,  and  sight,  you 
can  be  proudly  sure  that  you — are  you. 

How  should  you  know  that  I  speak  true?  A 
hundred  years  and  even  you  might  shudder  at  the 
thought  of  life  till  then.  But  if  a  thousand  years  and 
more  you  had  stood  in  a  crowded  world  and  watched 
the  pageant  of  your  little  hopes  and  petty  fears  pass 
by — and  still  pass  by — and  still — and  still!  Would 
you  not  gaze  towards  death  with  such  a  hunger  in  your 
eyes  as  even  God  might  have  some  pity  for? 

Your  sentence  is  of  death,  good  sirs.  God  grant 
you  have  the  power  to  bring  it  to  effect. 

FERERA 

I  have  but  little  patience  left  to  listen  to  your 
madness. 

TEXEDA 

Here  is  the  last  time  I  will  speak  the  mercy  of  the 
court.  Will  you  accept  the  Holy  Sacrament  of  the 
Church  in  Bread  and  Wine? 

MATTEOS 

The  spirit  of  your  Christ  is  nearer  to  my  heart  as 
I  stand  here — a  Jew — than  ever  it  could  be  to  those 
who  would  so  thrust  Him  'tween  their  lips. 

CASTRO 

The  man  is  mad ! 


152  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

TEXEDA 

Take  him  away.  Let  him  be  burnt  tomorrow  in 
the  market-place,  and  to  all  people  make  it  known  he 
is  a  Jew. 

[The  soldiers  lead  Matteos  swiftly  out. 
Texeda  rises,  the  Councillors  with  him. 
The  curtain  falls  as  they  troop  out. 

CURTAIN 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  153 


SCENE   III 

Scene 

This  is  the  square  of  the  market-place  in  Seville.  The 
stake  is  in  readiness  for  the  auto-da-fe.  A  bout  the  square 
can  be  seen  the  houses  of  the  city.  At  S.L.  a  platform 
has  been  erected  from  which  the  sentence  is  to  be  read 
and  on  which  the  officers  of  the  Inquisition  will  stand. 

As  curtain  rises  a  mob  of  people  is  being  kept  back 
from  the  stake  by  the  soldiers.  Beside  the  stake  are  piles 
of  faggots  lying  on  the  cobbled  stones. 

The  crowd  are  murmuring  excitedly  amongst  them- 
selves, their  voices  dropping  as  the  bellman  of  the  city 
comes  out  from  a  street  at  S.R.  He  is  followed  by  the 
Crier.     The  bellman  rings  his  bell. 

THE  CRIER 

{Reading  from  a  document  in  his  hand.)  Know  all 
dwellers  in  this  city  that  the  Holy  Office  of  the  In- 
quisition for  the  glory  and  honour  of  God  and  the 
exaltation  of  our  Holy  Faith,  will  this  day  celebrate 
a  public  trial  by  faith  upon  the  person  of  Matteos 
Battadios,  a  Jew  of  this  city. 

[There  is  a  moment's  hush,  then  the  voices  begin 
again  as  Olalla  pushes  her  way  into 
the  front  at  S.L.  As  she  sees  the  stake 
she  hides  her  face  in  her  hands.  The 
voices  die  away  once  more  as  the  procession 
approaches  from  the  same  direction  as  the 
Crier.  First  comes  a  priest  bearing  a 
white  cross,  then  another  bearing  a  green 


154  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

cross.  Then  follows  the  sentence  in  a 
scarlet  velvet  box,  carried  in  front  of  Fer- 
era,  the  Fiscal,  in  his  robes  of  office.  The 
voices  of  the  crowd  die  away  to  absolute 
silence  as  a  third  priest  enters,  carrying 
a  cross  shrouded  in  black,  followed  by  an 
acolyte  tolling  a  bell.  Immediately  behind 
these  walks  Battadios  in  his  robe  of  yel- 
low with  a  red  cross  on  his  back  and  chest. 
He  takes  his  place  below  the  platform. 

FERERA 

{From  the  platform.)  Matteos  Battadios,  before 
the  court  of  the  Inquisition  you  have  declared  you  are  a 
Jew.    Do  you  still  so  declare  yourself  before  these  here  ? 

MATTEOS 

I  do. 

{The  crowd  murmurs.) 

FERERA 

And  by  the  court  you  have  been  charged  and 
proved  in  blasphemy  against  the  Holy  Church.  Hear 
then  all  people  the  judgment  and  the  sentence  of  the 
Holy  Inquisition  on  this  man.  ( The  box  is  presented  to 
him.  He  takes  out  the  sentence  and  reads.)  The  court 
decrees  that  at  this  stake  and  in  the  eyes  of  all  men 
you  shall  be  burnt  to  death,  and  may  Almighty  God 
have  mercy  on  your  soul.  {As  he  crosses  himself.) 
In  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and  of  the 
Holy  Ghost.     Amen. 

[With  a  cry  Olalla  breaks  her  way  through  the 
soldiers  and  throws  herself  on  her  knees  at 


THE  WANDERING  JEW  155 

Battadios'  feet.  A  soldier  comes  for- 
ward to  take  her  away.  Ferera  holds  up 
his  hand  to  stop  him.     He  stands  over  her. 

OLALLA 

Master !     Master !     'Twas  I  who  brought  you  this. 

MATTEOS 

Child,  you  may  have  brought  me  great  deliverance. 
God  bless  you;  before  the  next  few  moments  have  gone 
by  I  shall  have  learnt  the  truth. 

OLALLA 

What  truth,  Master? 

MATTEOS 

That  which  we  all  must  learn  and  I  have  been 
awaiting  for  so  long.  {He  raises  her  to  her  feet.  She 
turns  weeping  away.)     Sirs,  begin  your  work. 

[The  soldier  leads  Olalla  away.  Another  sol- 
dier takes  Matteos  to  the  stake,  binding 
him  there  with  ropes.  The  faggots  are 
piled  around  him.  Two  soldiers  bring 
torches  to  light  the  faggots.  They  will  not 
light.     The  crowd  murmurs. 

a  voice 
The  faggots  will  not  light. 

ANOTHER   VOICE 

He  was  a  good  man.  Did  he  not  heal  my  son? 
Death  was  not  meant  for  him. 


156  THE  WANDERING  JEW 

MATTEOS 

{Looking  towards  heaven.)     Oh  God,  is  my  release 
not  yet? 

[As  he  lifts  his  face  a  bright  light  falls  on  it. 
He  meets  it  with  hope  and  fulfilment  in 
his  eyes. 

A   MAN   IN   THE   CROWD   BESIDE  OLALLA 

Look !     Look !    What  light  is  that  ? 

OLALLA 

It  is  the  light  of  Christ  come  out  to  meet  this  noble 

man. 

[At  this  moment  the  faggots  catch.     The  smoke 

begins  to  rise,  then  flames.     Matteos' 

garment  can  be  seen  to  get  slowly  black. 

His  head  is  still  thrown  back,  meeting  the 

light  as  the  flames  leap  up  against  him. 

A  t  last  when  all  his  garment  is  charred  and 

the  skin  of  his  face  discoloured  the  light  dies 

out,  and  his  head  falls  forward  on  his  chest. 

Olalla  drops  with  a  moan  to  the  ground 

and  then  the  bellman  rings  his  bell. 

THE  CRIER 

Matteos  Battadios,  the  Jew,  is  dead. 

CURTAIN 


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